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PROPOSEDIGRANITE MONUMENT.] 




100 Feet High. Accessible to T<p. 
The Vermont Legislature at its last ses- 
sion appropriated $15,000 for the purpose 
of erecting and maintaining a suitable 
monument commemorative of the achieve- 
ments or General John Stark and the pat- 
riot soldiers of Vermont New Hampshire 
and Massachusetts, at the decisive Battle 
of Bennington, fought on the 10th of Au- 
gust, 1777. 



THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON : 

A HISTORY OF 

Vermont's Centennial, 

JL^D THE ONE HUNDr|EDTH^NIYEr}S^RY OF BENNINGTON'S BATTLE, 



A CIVIC AND MILITARY REVIEW. 



V 

BY CHARLES S. FORBES. 



Illustrated. 






ST. ALBANS, VT.: 

ADVERTISER PRINTING CO. 
I8 77 . 

t 



,%4 Pi* 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1877, 

By OHAS, S. FORBES, 

In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. 



"Advertiser" Print, St. Albans, Vt. 



dedication. 



To the Most Worthy Descendant of 

Vermont 's Patriotic Manhood and Womanhood of 

One Hundred Years Ago, 

And the Most Illustriotis Representative To-Day of 

National Patriotis?n, True Statesmanship, 

and Sterling Political Principles, 

RUTHERFORD B. HAYES, 

The Chief Magistrate of the United States, North, 

South, East and West; 

Whose Honored Presence in Vermont on Her 

Centennial Anniversary Week has Placed 

Him Eirst in the Hearts of 

Her People, 

This Work is Respectfully Inscribed by 

tht Wix'xUx, 



ILLUSTRATIONS AND DIAGRAMS. 



I. — Proposed Battle Monument. 

II. — Bennington Centennial Grounds. 
III. — Village of Bennington, 1877. 
IV. — Battle Ground of One Hundred Years Ago. 

V. — The Hero of Bennington — Gen. Stark. 
VI. — Plan of Bennington Battle, 1777. 



PREFACE. 

The patriotic exercises and the imposing display which character- 
ized the coininemoration of Vermont's Centennial existence as a free 
and independent State, and the one hundredth anniversary of the 
Battle of Bennington, during the week of the 16th of August, 1877, are 
now of historic interest. History has done impartial justice to the 
glorious constitutional victories and martial achievements of one hun- 
dred years ago. The story of the "Second Battle of Bennington," and 
the history of Vermont's Centennial Celebration, redound no less to 
the honor and credit of the State than did the events of 1777. The 
writer has undertaken this work at the request of numerous friends, 
and in response to a public demand for the publication in some con- 
venient and attractive form of the history of that memorable week at 
Bennington. He will review briefly the patriotic events of 1777, and, 
commencing with the incorporation act of the Bennington Battle 
Monument Association, by the Legislature, in November, 1876, and 
the subsequent formation of " The Vermont Centennial Commission j" 
the preliminary arrangements of these pioneers of the Centennial, will 
be followed down to '* the days we celebrate." He purposes to give a 
concise and comprehensive history of the scenes, events and exer- 
cises of the great anniversary week, with a resume of the National 
Guard's Muster, and sketches of each Company of the First Regiment, 
and of all military organizations present at Bennington. The writer 
has labored to prepare a memento of interest, and one worthy of the 
successful commemoration. 

This work is the result, in a great measure, of the writer's obser- 
vation, and of notes taken on "the scene of action," as the represen- 
tative of the Burlington Free Press and Times and St. Albans Adver- 
tiser. As a guest at Camp Stark of the Eansom Guard, he desires to 
gratefully acknowledge their hospitality during the Muster. 

To all commanders of military organizations who have kindly pre- 
pared sketches of their respective commands, and encouraged the 
writer in advance of the publication of this work— by orders for nearly 
1,000 copies— he is under great obligation. He is especially indebted to 
Major A. P. Childs, of Bennington, Editor of " The Vermont Centen- 
nial" newspaper, and to A. H. Tuttle, Esq., Manager of the Eutland 
Herald and Globe, for the use of the fine illustrations that embellish 
this work. 

C. S. F. 

St. Albans, Vt, Sept., 1S77. 



INTRODUCTORY. 



«^H E commemoration in this country of the great his- 
^ s torical events that have characterized this Centennial 
" Era, which commenced with the hundredth anniversary 
of Bunker Hill and Concord, continued at Philadelphia, and 
so recently ended at Bennington, has exhibited the truest 
spirit and shown the highest test of National patriotism and 
republican simplicity in the manner of their observance. In 
the Old World, rulers of the martial stamp of Frederick the 
Great and Napoleon, commemorate their conquests made and 
battles won, and perpetuate these achievements, by erecting 
imposing triumphal arches, and Colossal statues in the courts 
of the Imperial City. On anniversary days the subjects of 
the Throne, who won the victory, but not the glory, celebrate 
the events which history has recorded in their own blood, by 
patriotically, but with subdued enthusiasm gazing upon these 
lifeless monuments of bronze and marble that stand to the 
honor and glory of "The Powers that Be." But in this land 
of free thought and equal rights we need no such reminders 
of the past to recall the patriotic deeds and heroic acts of those 
who died to make liberty and freedom possible. The remem- 
brance of those events and the memories of the men of one 
hundred years ago, are perpetuated in the hearts of the people, 
and finds a fitting expression in the patriotic display of the 
red, white and blue ; in flags and bunting, in gaily colored 
emblems and mottos, and in the mingled music of artillery 
and church bells. These with popular demonstrations and 
public rejoicing on anniversary days, are the best monuments 
to a glorious past, a peaceful present, and a future of progress 
and prosperity. 



THE SECOM) BATTLE OF BEKMXGTOX. 



A HISTORY OF 



VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 



CHAPTER I. 

The events of iyyy Reviewed. — Incorporation of the Benning- 
ton Battle Monument Association. — Formation of the Ver- 
mont Centennial Commission. — Events Preliminary to the 

Celebration. 

>|^|jj|H E conflict on the battle field at Bennington, August 
J^§j4i 1 6th, 1777, was prefaced so briefly by the martial note 
^Mffi of warning to the patriot "minute man," that the de- 
cisive and glorious victory there achieved seems all the more 
remarkable and brilliant, while each recurring anniversary 
adds lustre to the names and fresh laurels to the brows of the 
heroic dead. It is not the writer's purpose to review at length 
the events of the historic past-. Suffice it in this work to pre- 
face the history of Vermont's Centennial by a preliminary 
skirmish at this "outpost" of the Second Battle of Benning- 
ton, and by recalling the memorable events of one hundred 
years ago, to form an appropriate background of the patriotic 
deeds and noble actions of the men of 1777, which were com- 
memorated at Bennington on the Centennial Anniversary of 
their occurrence. 

The echoes from the battle fields of Concord, of Lexington 
and Bunker Hill had died away nearly two years in the past, 
and the declaration of American Independence had been six 



12 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

months proclaimed at Philadelphia, when the new year, 1777, 
dawned. With it there appeared on the Eastern horizon, 
among the galaxy of States, the star that never sets. Even 
while all was seeming peace and content on the surface of this 
royal domain, along the Connecticut and among the green hills 
of the interior of the New Hampshire Grants, to the shores of 
Champlain, in the mid-winter of 1777, when the Frost King, 
— unlike King George of England — was monarch of all he sur- 
veyed, there assembled at the snow-bound" hamlet of West- 
minster a convention of brave and hardy pioneers and 
freemen, who declared their independence of Britain's King 
and laid the foundation for a free and sovereign republic to be 
known as Vermont. And as the advancing summer's sun 
unbound the icy fetters, and loosed the hold of the Arctic King 
on the Green Mountain slopes and fertile valleys of the new 
born State, so the coming season witnessed the form and 
■sceptre of Royalty wave and disappear, while edicts from the 
King were scorned as chaff. Midsummer came, and the pio- 
neers and patriots of the New Hampshire Grants assembled at 
Windsor, and adopted a constitution for the new republic. 
These were the victories of peace, even while the tramp of 
red coated regulars, and the thunders of English artillery were 
heard within her borders. Six weeks later these same Green 
Mountain boys, fresh from the farms and meadows, came down 
to Bennington with hunting gun and powder horn, undisci- 
plined and unused to war, to battle for the right to life, liberty 
and the pursuit of happiness, and in defence of their constitu- 
tion and new-born freedom, against the flower of the English 
army. It is gratifying to recall the fact that at Bennington, 
*' the flag that waved a hundred years " — the stars and stripes, 
received its baptism of fire, and was carried to victory for the 
first time on land. It was a worthy initiation of the National 
emblem that to-day is honored the wide world over. 

THE INCORPORATION OF THE BENNINGTON BATTLE MONU- 
MENT ASSOCIATION. 

The patriotic people of Bennington have, on each recurring 
16th of August, celebrated this battle day with commendable 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 1 3 

enthusiasm and ceremony. The General Assembly of the 
State, at the biennial session of 1876, recognized in a very 
substantial and fitting manner the memorable events of the 
past, and anticipated the patriotic public sentiment which the 
approaching Centennial Anniversary of Vermont's great battle, 
and the hundredth year of her Constitution, Declaration and 
Freedom, would arouse, by passing the following act of incor- 
poration. This was the first gun at the second battle of Ben- 
nington. 

An Act to incorporate the Bennington Battle Monument Asso- 
ciation. 

Sec. 1. Hiland Hall, Horace Fairbanks, W. H. H. Bingham, Justin 
S.Morrill. E. J. Phelps, Geo. F. Edmunds, Isaac Jennings, Trenor W. 
Park, John B. Page, Jacob Estey, E. P. Walton, John Gregory Smith, 
Asahel Peck, John W. Stewart, Abram B. Gardner, Paul Dillingham, 
Harmon Canfield. Edward Seymour, Burnam Martin, Frederick Bil- 
lings, Franklin Butler, Jed P. Ladd, Mason S. Colburn, Edward A. 
Sowles, Carroll S. Page, E. D. Mason. W. W. Grout. E. P. Colton, 
George N Dale, Duane L. Kent, Gilbert A. Davis, Homer Goodhue, 
Milo C. Huling, J. Henry Guild, George W. Farwell. Oscar E Butter- 
field. Cyrus Jennings, E D. Biodgett, Kedfleld Proctor. John Lovejoy 
Mason. Eben Graves, Hiram Burton ; and Seth B. Hunt, H. Henry 
Baxter and William M. Evans, of the city of New York ; Samuel San- 
ford and Daniel Robinson of Troy, New York, and Sidney B. Squires, 
of osion, Massachusetts with seven persons to be elected annually in 
January by the Bennington Historical Society, are hereby constituted, 
with their associates and successors a body politic and corporate, by 
the name of the Bennington Battle Monument Association, for the 
purpose of erecting and maintaining a suitable monument commemo- 
rative of the achievements of General John Stark and the patriot 
soldiers of Verim nt. New Hampshire and Massachusetts, at the de- 
cisive battle of Bennington, fought on the sixteenth of August, 17-?, 
with all the rights and powers incident to corporations ; and said cor- 
poration shall be located at Bennington, and may have a common seal 
and the same ; Iter at pleasure ; may -ue and be sued ; may make such 
laws and regulations as may be necessary, not inconsistent with the 
laws of this State ; and may take and hold, by gift, purchase, devise or 
otherwise, real and personal estate to the amount of thirty thousand 
dollars, and the same manage and dispose of for the purpose of said 
corporation 

Sec. '2. The ■ 'overnor, Lieutenant-Governor, Speaker of the House 
of Representatives, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, shall 
be members, ex- officio, of this corporation ; and said corporation, at 



14 THE SECOND BATTLE- OF BENNINGTON: 

their first meeting or at any annual meeting, may elect, by ballot, any 
number of persons not exceeding sixty in all, exclusive of the members 
ex-officio, to be members of the corporation. 

Sec. 3. At their first meeting said corporation shall elect a presi- 
dent, a vice-president, a treasurer, a secretary, and a board of directors, 
and may elect other officers as they shall see fit. The treasurer shall 
give bonds in such sum as the directors shall determine, and these may 
be increased from time to time as they may order. 

Sec. 4. The Governor is hereby directed to invite, in the name of 
this State, the States of New Hampshire and Massachusetts to unite 
with the State of Vermont in erecting a battle monument at Benning- 
ton. 

Sec. 5. No moneys appropriated by the State shall be expended by 
this association in the erection of a monument until sufficient funds 
shall have been accumulated by the association to complete it. 

Sec. 6. This association shall, at their first annual meeting, take 
measures to secure at Bennington, during the week of the 16th of 
August, 1877, an appropriate centennial celebration of the battle of 
Bennington, and also the recognition of the year 1877 as the one hun- 
dredth year of the existence of this State as an independent State. 

Sec. 7. The Auditor of Accounts is hereby directed to draw his 
order on the Treasurer of the State, in favor of the Treasurer of this 
Association, for the sum of fifteen thousand dollars, upon receiving 
satisfactory proof that said Association has raised and is in actual 
possession of available funds to the amount of five thousand dollars, to 
be expended for the erection of a battle monument at Bennington ; he 
is also directed to draw a further order for the sum of two thousand 
dollars, for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of section six, 
provided the Association shall raise the sum of two thousand dollars 
for this purpose. 

Sec 8. The first meeting of this corporation shall be held, without 
further notice, on the second Wednesday in January, A. D. 1877, at the 
Court House, in said town of Bennington, at ten o'clock in the fore- 
noon, at which meeting any ten of said corporators shall form a quorum 
for business. 

Sec. 9. This Act shall take effect from its passage. 

Approved November 23, 1876. 

THE FIRST MEETING OF THE ASSOCIATION. 

In conformity with the provisions of this act, the first meet- 
ing of the corporators of the Association was held at Ben- 
nington, on Wednesday, January 10, 1877. The Association 
organized by the election of the following board of officers: 
President, Governor Horace Fairbanks; Vice-President, ex- 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 1 5 

Governor Hiland Hall; Secretary, Chas. M. Bliss; Assistant 
Secretary, John T. Shurtleff; Treasurer, Milo C. Ruling; and 
the following Board of Directors: A. B. Gardner, A. B. 
Valentine, Chas. E. Dewey, Olin Scott, A. P. Childs, all of 
Bennington. A Literary Committee was formed, consisting 
of the following gentlemen of culture: C. M. Bliss, A. B. 
Gardner, Isaac Jennings and E. J. Phelps. The following 
seven persons were added to the membership — the same 
being elected thereto by vote of the Bennington Historical 
Society : C. E. Dewey, C. M. Bliss, Olin Scott, H. G. Root, 
A. B. Valentine, G. W. Robinson, and J. T. Shurtleff. The 
Monument Association also elected Messrs. A. P. Childs, W. 
E. Hawks and E. S. Chandler, all of Bennington, as members. 
An Executive Committee was formed at this meeting, con- 
sisting of Hon. A. B. Gardner, A. P. Childs, Chas. E. Dewey, 
and Olin Scott. 

FORMATION OF THE "VERMONT CENTENNIAL COMMISSION." 

This commission was created through the Battle Monument 
Association at their first meeting. The object and purpose of 
this new organization being auxiliary to that of the association 
itself, which was to arrange and carry out a programme of 
exercises for a fitting and worthy commemoration of Ver- 
mont's Centennial, and Bennington's one hundredth battle 
anniversary for the week of the 16th of August. As a finan- 
cial nucleus the State had voted the sum of $2,000 for this 
observance ; and the best guarantee that the celebration would 
be a grand success — if such a thing were among the possibil- 
ities — and that the necessary funds would be provided, was in 
the following able and excellent board of officers who were 
elected : 

President, E. J. Phelps, Burlington. Vice Presidents, Hiland Hall, 
Bennington; Ryland Fletcher, Cavendish; Fred. Holbrook, Brattle- 
boro; John Gregory Smith, St. Albans; Paul Dillingham, Waterbury ; 
John B. Page, Rutland; Geo. W. Hendee, Morristown; John W, 
Stewart, Middlebury; Julius Converse, Woodstock; Asahel Peck, 
Jericho; W. H. H. Bingham, Stowe; Burnam Martin, Chelsea; Geo. 
N. Dale, Island Pond; W. W. Grout, Barton; Jed. P. Ladd, Alburgh. 
Secretary, Charles M. Bliss, Bennington; Treasurer, Milo C. Huling, 



l6 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

Bennington; Executive Committee, Henry G. Root, Milo C. Huling, 
A. B. Valentine, Bennington; Geo. A. Merrill, Rutland; C. S. Page, 
Hyclepark. 

Subsequently sub-commissioners, or local committees, were 
appointed throughout the State, for the purpose of obtaining 
subscriptions to the Centennial fund. 

EVENTS PRELIMINARY TO THE CELEBRATION. 

Meetings were held to further this end from time to time, 
and the result attests to the patriotic liberality of the citizens 
of this State. Among the subscribers are found the names of 
the following public spirited and distinguished men, Gov. 
Fairbanks, Hon. Frederick Billings, Hon. T. W. Park, Gen. 
H. H. Baxter, for $500 each. Ex-Govs. Smith, Page, Hall, 
Hons. Redfield Proctor, L. P. Poland, N. T. Sprague, A. B. 
Gardner, and Messrs. Lansing Millis, A. B. Valentine, Cyrus 
Jennings, W. E. Hawks, H. E. Bradford, H. H. Conkling, 
S. B. Hunt & Co., C. E. & E. Dewey, with others, $100 
each. The amount raised in this manner has been sufficient 
to meet the expenses incident to the grand celebration. — (so 
far as present calculation can arrive at). 

Agreeably to the invitation extended to the States of Massa- 
chusetts and New Hampshire, to assist in the erection of the 
proposed monument, and to participate in the anniversary 
celebration commemorative of the event the monument was 
designed to perpetuate and signalize, the Old Bay State 
promptly appropriated the sum of $7,500, the Granite State 
followed by an appropriation of $5,000, toward the monument, 
making with the amount voted by Vermont and that received 
from other sources, the total of $32,500 up to the present 
time. These two sister states also voted the sum of $2,000 
each, for the purpose of providing for the attendance of the 
Governor and staff, the legislative bodies, and a military 
escort at Bennington, in acceptance of Vermont's invitation. 



g ac.-;.i. c^j^r- 




EXPLANATORY NOTES. 

Main Ground, 1800 feet in length. Oration tent 
accommodates 12,000. Banquet tent seats 3500. Re- 
viewing- stand and elevated seats on right of dotted 
line, (old race track). Headquarters Governor of 
Vermont, Chief Marshal and Division Commanders' 
in front of Vermont Camp. Committees' Headquar- 
ters just inside entrance to grounds. Mass* accu- 
se « ts train upun siding within the grounds as shown. 
Putnam Phalanx occupy the Seminary, near Ben- 
nington Center. Exhibition of Revolutionary Relics 
at Bennington Center. 



CHAPTER II. 

The Military Comme??ioration. — Col. Peck's Order. — The Cen- 
tennial and Muster Grounds. — Arrival of the National 
Guards, and Occupation of Camp Stark. The first day of 
Camp Life. 

^WlyH E Bennington Centennial being commemorative of 
jlfi|£| the greatest military achievement of the Green Mount- 
*$&*!* ain Boys of the clays of Allen and Warner, it was highly 
appropriate that the "descendants in arms" of these patriotic 
sires — the National Guard of Vermont — should muster on this 
ground made historic, on the Centennial anniversary of that 
battle. Although no clash of arms from contending forces 
would again resound through this beautiful valley, yet the 
■"pomp and panoply" of war that martialed here as conserva- 
tors of peace, was in striking contrast to the militia of 1777 
that contested Royal troops with flint locks, and in homespun 
dress. Instead of the midnight call by courier, the martial 
note of warning came to the National Guard from the print- 
ing press in 

COLONEL PECK'S ORDER. 

Headquarters First Regiment, 

National Guard of Vermont, 

Burlington, Yt., July 16, 18' 
General Order No. 24. 

I. This regiment will go into camp at Bennington, Yt., on the morn- 
ing of Saturday. August 11, 1877, for eight (8) days. 

II. This camp will be known as Camp Stark. 

III. Company commanders will report at regimental headquarters 
for duty upon their arrival in camp. 

IY. Immediately after Guard Mount on the morning of August 13, 
l877. the First Sergeant of eaeh company will report to the Adjutant 
at his quarters with company rolls and rosters for inspection. 
2 17 



,\ 



1 8 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

V. Unless otherwise ordered the following routine of duty will be 
observed : 

1. Assembly of Trumpeters, 5 a.. M. 

2. Reveille, 5 30 a. m. 

3. Assembly (roll call), 5.45 A. M. 

4. Police call, 6 a. m. 

5. Breakfast call 7 a.m. 

6. Surgeon's call 8 a. m. 

7. Guard Mount— Assembly of Trumpeters, 8.30 a. m. Assembly 

of guard details 8.45 a. m. Adjutant's call. 9 a. m. 

8. Battalion drill, 10 a. m. 

9. Recall and roll call, 12 m. 

10. Assembly, 12.05 p. m. 

11. Dinner, 12.30 p. m. 

12. Company drill. 1.30 p. m. 

13. Recall and formation for Battalion drill, 2.30 p. m. 

14. Recall, 5 p. m. 

15. Dress parade— Assembly, 5.45* p. m. Adjutant's call, G p. M. 

16. Supper, 7 p. m. 

17. Assembly of Trumpeters 9 p. m. 

18. Tattoo, 9 15 p. m 

19. Assembly (roll call), 9.30 p. m. 

20. Taps, lu p. m. 



FIRST REGIMENT NATIONAL GUARD OF VERMONT. 

At Bennington,. August nth to iSth. 

ROSTER OF OFFICERS. 
NAME. RANK. RESIDENCE. 

Theodore S. Peck Col Burlington. 

Wm. L. Greenleaf Lt.-Col ...Winooski. 

Carlos W. Carr Major Brandon. 

Albert D. Tenney Adj't St. Albans. 

William Smith Q. M Burlington. 

Sanf ord E. Weston Com'ry Burlington. 

Josiah P. Crampton. Surgeon Winooski. 

Charles P. Thayer Ass't do Burlington. 

Leroy M. Bingham Ass't do Burlington. 

Daniel C. Roberts Chaplain Brandon. 

NON-COMMISSIONED STAFF. 

Henry M. Stanton Sergeant Major . 

Ed. E. Greenleaf Q. M. Sergeant. 

J. S. Spaulding Commissary Sergeant. 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 19 

Geo. G. Smith Ordnance Sergeant. 

Barney E. Mead Hospital Steward. 

Geo. C. Hastings Drum Major. 

H. C. Simmons Chief Musician. 

CAPTAINS. 
CO. 

Carlos D. Williams F Northfield. 

John W. Newton D St. Albans. 

Julius J. Estey I Brattleboro. 

Charles C. Kinsman A Rutland. 

J. Newton Culver B ' St, Albans. 

Ira M. Hatch C Brandon. 

Nelson O. Wilcox K Bennington. 

Wm. W. Henry E Burlington. 

Eugene Leavitt G Bradford. 

John H. Sargent H Micldlebury. 

FIRST LIEUTENANTS. 

Matthew G. Gilder, Company B; E. H. Howes, F; E. M. Fdgerton, 
A; Edward H. Webster, C; Fletcher K. Barrows, I; James A. N. 
Williams. K; Eben Taplin, E; Charles F. Dickey, G; F. S Stranahan, 
D; William L. Cady, H. 

SECOND LIEUTENANTS, 

Emerson W. Bordo, Company B; George Q. Day, A; William H. 
Bradford, K; Frederick W. Childs, I; William L. French, E; Jchn L. 
Moseley, F; William T. Terrey, G; Lewis J. Cayhee, C ; ; Seymour H. 
Wood, D; Edgar L. Stewart, H. 

FULLER LIGHT BATTERY, BRATTLEBOR?. 

Levi K. Fuller ... Captain. 

Edwin H. Putnam Adjutant. 

C. Adams Gray Assistant Surgeon. 

Charles R. Briggs 1st Lieutenant. 

John G. Rice : 1st Lieutenant. 

Edwin A. Puffer. .* 2d Lieutenant. 

Patrick Conner 2d Lieutenant. 

POSITIONS OF COMPANIES IN LINE. 

2 7 10 5839461 

DKH BEI GACF 

10 98 7654321 

THE CENTENNIAL AND MUSTER GROUNDS. 

The ground selected for the military encampments, and for 
the public exercises to take place on, was exceptionally beau- 



20 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

tiful in its location, and picturesque in its surrounding scenery. 
The forum is a fifty acre field, sloping down from the wooded 
sides of Mount Anthony in billowy ridges toward the valley, 
where lies the village with its white houses, looking like flakes 
of foam on a sea of green foliage. All around, save to the 
westward, are the steep slopes of the Green Mountains, with 
dark cloud-shadows floating along their sides. The grounds 
are situated some half a mile from the depot, between the 
center and lower villages. The smooth, lawn-like surface of 
the meadow, free from either stone or bush, presented a charm- 
ing scene, bordered by the pretty camps of the National Guard 
and veteran soldiers, the rows of tents looking as white as 
snow drifts on the velvet green of the held. To the south of 
''Camp Ethan Allen" was erected the banquet tent, 410 feet 
in length and 50 feet wide. At the north of this tent was the 
orators' stand, situated so the people could sit under the ban- 
quet tent while listening to the literary exercises. West of 
the banquet tent there was erected two pavilions, running 
parallel with each other, 150 feet long and 35 feet wide, at 
which the veteran soldiers took their meals. Thirty-six wall 
tents were erected, which were let for lodging purposes to 
parties desiring the privilege. Headquarter tents were also 
provided for the President and the Governors of different 
States. On one side of the field 700 feet of track was laid for 
the accommodation of the train of 18 Pullman cars which con- 
veyed the Governor, Council and Legislature of Massachusetts. 

ARRIVAL OF THE NATIONAL GUARD AT BENNINGTON. 

Saturday, August nth, was a perfect day, bright, cool and 
refreshing in its attractions. After a fine ride on a special 
train of twelve cars, the National Guard arrived at Benning- 
ton at 2 o'clock in the afternoon. The advent of the military 
was signalized by the blowing of half a dozen locomotive 
whistles, and a salute from Fuller's Battery of 12-pounders, 
which had marched over the mountain from Brattleboro, reach- 
ing here early Saturday morning. 

The regiment was met at the place of debarkation by the 
Park Guard, accompanied by the Park Guard Band, and the 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 21 

Bradford Light Guard, which arrived on a night train the 
evening before. The Ransom Guard Band of 24 pieces — the 
Regimental Band for the Muster — also came by this train, and» 
led by the home band, a procession was formed as follows: 

1. New England Guard, Northfield, 51 men. 

2. Sprague Guard, Brandon, 51 men. 

3. Rutland Light Guard, Rutland, 51 men. 

4. Bradford Light Guard, Bradford, 52 men. 

5. Estey Guard, Brattleboro, 58 men. 

6. Green Mountain Boys, Burlington, 52 men. 

7. Barlow Grays, St. Albans, 51 men. 

8. Stewart Guard, Middlebury, 52 men. 

9. Ransom Guard, St. Albans, 60 men. 

10. Park Guard, Bennington, 51 men; acting as escort. 

The Regiment passed through North street to Main, and 
thence through Main to Camp Stark. Across North street, in 
front of the residence -of Capt. N. O. Wilcox, of the Park 
Guard, was shown a handsome banner bearing these words, 
"Welcome to the National Guard of Vermont." The Regi- 
ment while marching presented a fine, soldierly appearance, 
and Col. Peck may well be as proud of the bearing of his 
"Green Mountain Boys," in this centennial year of Vermont, 
as was Col. Warner of the valor of his men one hundred years 
since. 

OCCUPATION OF CAMP STARK. 

As the white canopied field of Camp Stark came into view, 
w T ith Mount Anthony's green slopes for a background, the 
sight was refreshing to the military. An advance guard from 
each company had pitched the tents and put things in fine 
order for their comrades, now marching up to camp. On arriv- 
ing, each company filed off to their quarters and settled down 
to the realities of muster. 

To illustrate the nature of the routine duty and the pleas- 
ures of camp life, we will describe the scenes and events of 
the first twenty-four hours from the arrival of the Regiment. 

Before the supper call to "rations" is sounded, details for 
guard are made up from each company, comprising twenty- 
two posts, and sixty men which constitute the sentinel rounds 



22 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

of Camp Stark. The companies having formed in line in 
their streets, then marched to their mess tents at the rear of 
the encampment, where instead of the regular salt pork and 
hard tack, with mother earth's carpet of green for a spread, 
are found long tables covered by white linen cloths on which 
all the accompaniments of a well appointed household, such 
as cutlery, crockery and glassware, with a substantial and 
bountiful repast, in fact, what the boys term a " square meal," 
in tempting array, the same being prepared by experienced 
cooks. The boys "fall in," "eyes front," and " charge," with 
wonderful effect on the enemy's "line" of provisions, but in 
perfect order during the movement. Three times daily, — at 
7 A. M., 12:30 and 7 o'clock P. M., the tables are made the 
scene of " festive boards," but unlike the electoral commission, 
the boys often went behind the " returns" and ordered another 
"count" of rations to be sent in. The evening shades begin 
to fall, and the music from Glee Clubs and the Regimental 
Band make the hours enjoyable until "taps" sound at 10 
o'clock; and soon silence reigns, and " all is quiet on the 
Walloomsac," except the sentinel's cry of "all is well;" which 
tells that military vigils watch the slumbering solders. 

Sunrise, followed by "Reveille" at 5.30 o'clock, soon brings 
the stern realities of military duty to the boys in camp ; and 
toilets are made for breakfast, at 7 o'clock, after which, guard 
mount at 9 A. M., battalion drill at 10 A. M., roll call at 12 M. 
and dinner at 12.30 o'clock P. M., takes up the morning. For 
recreation in the afternoon, company drill at 1.30 P. M. bat- 
talion drill at 2.30 p. M. and dress parade at 6 o'clock p. M. 
completes the twenty-four hours of daily camp duty, counting 
from the hour our m?/w/ commenced. 



CHAPTER III. 

Sunday s Observance at Bennington. — Gov. Fairbanks and 
Staff on Review, Monday. — The Veterans' 1 Reunion. — Ar- 
rival of Col. Hooker s Battalion on Tuesday. — Officers of the 
Old Soldiers Organization. 

®#H E day was spent in peace and rest at camp, broken 
■S^jl^! only by guard mount in the morning and dress parade 
tSgflp at sunset. Morning and evening prayer was observeed 
by the Chaplain, Rev. D. C. Roberts, at his headquarters, and 
were continued daily through the muster. In the churches of 
Bennington the services were of a patriotic christian character, 
no less than eight clergymen preaching at once on war and its 
glories when waged in the cause of freedom. At St. Peter's, 
the First Regiment Chaplain took his text from one of the 
victorious Psalm ; at the Second Congregational, Burgoyne's 
invasion was hardly veiled by a line from Isaiah ; at the First 
Church, the words of the mild St. John headed a sermon 
preached under the flaunting flags of all nations ; at the Meth- 
odist, "Liberty" was the theme ; at the Baptist, "He is my 
fortress," was the text ; and so the round of the churches was 
made by the newly aroused spirit of one hundred years ago. 
It was a fitting opening of the week of reminiscent warfare, 
like the prayer before battle ; and with the red, white and blue 
in flags and bunting, gracefully draped around the pulpits, 
and depending from ceilings, with bouquets of choice flowers 
adding to the beauty of the decorations, the places of worship 
seemed to preach eloquent sermons in their very appearance. 
In the afternoon the Chaplain of the regiment held a church 
service in the large banquet tent near the veterans' camp. 
The regiment attended in a body. The singing was very fine. 

2 3 



24 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

The Chaplain preached an eloquent discourse on "Work and 
Soldiery." A service of song, or praise meeting, was held at 
the First Congregational Church afterwards, which was largely 
attended. The dress parade at six o'clock Sunday evening, ^ 
drew thousands of spectators to the review ground. The 
scene was a brilliant one to the assembled multitude, as stand- 
ing at the lower edge of the green slope, the National Guard 
were viewed as they came marching from their camp into line, 
their gray coats and white pants, their banners waving, and 
gun barrels glistening, with their precision of movement, 
making a fine display. Thus closed the Sabbath of the Cen- 
tennial week. 

GOVERNOR FAIRBANKS AND STAFF. 

His Excellency Horace Fairbanks, Governor and Com- 
mander in chief, came to Bennington Saturday, and his staff 
having arrived on Monday, reviewed the First Regiment in 
the evening. This formed the most notable event of the 
second day. The militia made a very creditable appearance, 
and Col. Peck was complimented by the Governor and staff 
on the proficiency of his command. The staff were dressed 
in a fine new uniform of black, with heavy gold trimming. 

They comprise the following popular and estimable gentle- 
men: 

Brig. General James S. Peck, Adjutant and Inspector General 
Brig. General Levi G. Kingsley. Quartermaster General. 
Brig. General Joel H. Lucia, Judge Advocate General. 
Henry C. Newell, Surgeon General. 

Col. John A. Sheldon. Chief of Staff. 
aids : 
Col. J. J. Estcy, Col. Wm. W. Grout, Col. A. B. Jewett, 

Col. Alvin C. Hubbell, Col. W. G. Veazey, Col. W. P. Dillingham, 
Col. A. W. Hastings, Col. Wm. Wells, Col. Fred E. Smith. 

Col. Roswell Farnham, Col. E. A. Chittenden, 

A. E. Rankin, Secretary Civil and Military Affairs. 

In selecting these representative Vermonters for his staff 

Governor P'airbanks has shown his excellent judgment. The 

dignity of the office which he so admirably maintained, and 

the duties of a public character that devolved on the Execu- 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 2$ 

tive of the State, was in the one case, well supplemented by 
the courteous attendance of the staff, and the labor of the 
other rendered much less onerous by their aid at the Centen- 
nial. 

The Putnam Phalaux under command of Major F. M. 
Brown, numbering sixty muskets and twelve musicians, arrived 
at Bennington Tuesday morning on a special train from Hart- 
ford. This famous organization was welcomed by an Artillery 
salute, and escorted to their quarters at the Yates Seminary 
in Bennington Centre. 

THE VETERANS' REUNION. — COL. HOOKER HEADS THE VAN, 

As if to form a connecting link with the past — between the 
citizen soldiery of 1877, and the minute-man of 1777 — the 
veterans of the late war, they who survive from Gettysburg, 
from the Wilderness, from Antietam, and from a hundred 
battle fields, had been called by their commander to assemble 
on this historic ground for their annual re-union. Camp 
Ethan Allen, their bivouac, was ready, with its tented field, on 
Tuesday, for their reception. 

The first "boys in blue" to arrive at Bennington, were 
Colonel George W. Hooker's Windham County veterans, who 
came marching up to Camp Ethan Allen with banners flying 
and bands of music playing. They were brown and dust 
covered by their march over the mountain. "The " story of 
the march" is as follows: 

The Brattleboro Cornet Band struck up a lively air as they 
led Col. Hooker and his splendidly equipped staff, with a 
portion of the Windham County veterans' battalion Benning- 
tonward from Brattleboro, at &}£ o'clock Monday morning, in 
the presence of a vast crowd of Brattleborians. The ladies 
waved their handkerchiefs, patriotic men displayed flags and 
everybody proffered an ait revoir. 

The march through Marlboro, Wilmington, Searsburg and 
Woodford, was made the occasion for a perfect ovation to the 
old veterans. The entire populace, men and women, old and 
young, turning out en masse to salute and "God speed" the 
1861 defenders of firesides and homes. 



26 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

COLONEL HOOKER'S STAFF 

comprised the first representative men of Windham County, as 
follows : 

Colonel D. D. Wheeler, chief of staff; Gen. W. W. Lynde, 
Maj. Henry R. Chase, H. R. Lawrence, assistant adjutant- 
generals; Col. N. C. Sawyer, Maj. R. M. Gould, Maj. B. R. 
Jenne, assistant inspector-generals; C. M. Russel, assistant 
quartermaster-general; G. H. Babbit, H. K. White, C. F. 
Estabrook, assistant quartermasters; C. L. Piper, assistant 
commissary-general; George S. Dowley, H. F. Brooks, Geo. 
E. Selleck, assistant commissaries; Dr. D. P. Webster, medi- 
cal director; Dr. Frank Whitman, surgeon; Dr. Walter Men- 
delson, assistant surgeon; Col. Preston, C. F. West, chief en- 
gineers; A. R. Dunklee, engineer; H. E. Taylor, assistant 
engineer; J. G. Martin, judge advocate; E. L. Waterman, 
assistant judge advocate-general; Rev. Dr. Florace Burchard, 
chaplain; S. Wright Bowker, provost-marshal; B. F. Phelps, 
assistant provost-marshal. Aides: D. S. Pratt, Sr., J. G. 
Taylor, Richard Lawrence, H. M. Wilder, H. G. Porter, 
Sem Pierce, J. Washburn Mellendy, Dexter Waite, J. R. 
Warner, Barney Cannon, Jr., Wales H. Willard, S. W. Bailey x 
H. M Currier, C. W. Stewart, D. S. Priest, A. E. Brighain, 
S. D. Curtis, Barnet S. Waite, Thomas F. Johnson, Wyman 
Flint, A. H. Fisher, Gilman Warren, C. H. Norton, N. I. 
Hawley, Henry G. Clark, A. M. McDonald, R. M. Silsby, 
G. T. Witherell, John Aiken, M. E. Adams, L. N. Sprague, 
E. E. Dewey, G. K. Russell, A. J. Tucker. 

The numerous and distinguished staff of the gallant Colonel 
was a fitting front for the brave "old vets," who, with perfect 
step, steady tread, and patriotic ardor promptly followed their 
file leaders, and, with their attractive outfits, made a fine ap- 
pearance as they rode at the head of the veteran column, which 
includes many of " the fighting boys " of old Windham, who 
are clad in blue shirts, black pants, black hats with white 
belts, the officers being designated by white shirts, black pants 
and hat. The Brattleboro, Rockingham, Vernon, Dummers- 
ton, Putney, Newfane, Townshend, Wardsboro, Londonderry, 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 27 

Dover and Wilmington veterans are merged in this grand 
battalion. They were followed before sundown by other bat- 
talions, and soon the camp was fully occupied. 

THE VETERANS' OFFICERS. 

The organization of the grand division of the old soldiers is 
as follows, (some changes occurred by resignation and other- 
wise) : 

First brigade, Col. A. F. Walker, of Rutland, commander; 
1st battalion of Rutland County, J. H. Dyer, of Rutland, 
commander; 2d battalion, of Bennington County, Willarc^ 
Holden, of Arlington, commander. Second brigade, Col. F. 
G. Butterfield, of Saxton's River; 1st battalion, of Windham 
County, George W. Hooker, of Brattleboro; 2d battalion, of 
Windsor County, Ora Paul, of Pomfret. Third brigade, Gen. 
George P. Foster, of Burlington, commander; 1st battalion, of 
Addison County, A. S. Tracy, of Middlebury; 2d battalion, of 
Chittenden County, Warren Gibbs, of Burlington; 3d battal- 
ion, of Franklin County, Thomas H. Kennedy, of Fairfield; 
4th battalion, of Grand Isle County, G. H. Sowles, of Alburg. 
Fourth brigade, Col. Francis V. Randall, of Montpelier, com- 
•mander; 1st battalion, of Caledonia County, E. P. Farr, of 
St. Johnsbury; 2d battalion, of Essex County, E. P. Lee, of 
Island Pond; 3d battalion, of Lamoille County, C. D. Gates, 
of Cambridge; 4th battalion, of Orleans County, G. H. Blake, 
of Barton; 5th battalion, of Orange County, J. B. Mead, of 
Randolph; 6th battalion, of Washington County, R. J. Coffey, 
of Montpelier. 



CHAPTER IV. 

The Centennial Day of Vermont's Independence. — Its Com- 
memoration from Dawn to Noon-Day. — -Neiv Ha?npshire at 
Bennington, iJJJ. — The Grand Procession, 1877. — Exercises 
in the Orators'' Pavilion. 

ftp HE Declaration of Independence of the United States, 
"1 July, 1776, prompted the assembling of the Conven- 
|y$* tion which met at Westminster, Vt., January 15, 1777, 
and voted that the district of land commonly called and known 
try the name of the New Hampshire Grants, be a new and 
separate State, and for the future conduct themselves as such. 
It is in commemoration of this event that the people, under 
the auspices of the Bennington Battle Monument Association, 
joined in a series of public patriotic demonstrations, which 
commenced on the morning of August 15th, 1877, at Ben- 
nington. 

Copious showers fell during the night, laying the dust and 
preparing the streets for the passage of the procession, and the 
sun being obscured the weather was favorable for the patriotic 
festivities, which called forth thousands of the fair and hardy 
daughters of the Green Mountain States. At sunrise, the 
booming of the cannon of Fuller's Battery awoke the echoes 
among the surrounding hills, and the church bells rang out a 
peal of joy. The uniformed militia of Vermont, New Hamp- 
shire and Connecticut, and the army of Veterans in Camp 
Ethan Allen were early astir, and at half past nine marched 
to the foot of County street, where the procession was formed 
under the direction of Major A. B. Valentine, of Bennington. 

THE PROCESSION. 

The formation of the column differed somewhat from the 
official programme. The duty of escorting the State officials 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 20, 

and other civic dignitaries fell to the First Regiment, N. G. of 
Vermont, a splendid body of men 700 strong, which presented 
a fine appearance in their gray and white uniform. Then 
came the Governor of this State, the Executive Committee of 
the Bennington Battle Monument Association, and the Ver- 
mont Centennial Commission and invited guests in fourteen 
carriages. 

The Second Division was headed by the Putnam Phalanx of 
Hartford, Conn., in their picturesque uniform of the revolu- 
tionary period, followed by the New Hampshire troops, con- 
sisting of the Amoskeag Veterans, Major Wallace ; Portsmouth 
Heavy Artillery, Capt. Vaughn, 45 men ; State Capital Guards 
of Concord, Capt. Felt, 53 men ; Plinsdale Guards, Capt. 
Hosford, 35 men ; Manchester War Veterans, Capt. Dodge, 
56 men, escorting the State officials of New Hampshire, 
including Governor Prescott, ex-Governors Harriman and 
Smyth ; Gen. Natt Head, President of the Senate ; Hon. T. 
A. Woolson, Speaker of the House ; the Executive Council 
of New Hampshire, consisting of Hons. J. B. Smith, John 
M. Parker, Edward Spaulding, Francis A. Cushman and 
Jeremiah Blodgett ; and State officers of New Hampshire, as 
follows : A. B. Thompson, Secretary of State ; Solon A. 
Carter, Treasurer ; the Rev. Nathaniel Bouton, State His- 
torian ; Oliver Pillsbury, Insurance Commissioner ; Mason 
W. Tappan, Attorney General ; Gen. Ira Cross, Adjutant 
General ; Dr. Granville P. Conn, Commissioner ; the Rev. C. 
A. Downs, Superintendent of Public Instruction. The Leg- 
islature of New Hampshire, comprising some 150 members ; 
Col. Charles C. Danforth, Clerk of the House ; A. W. Baker, 
Assistant Clerk of the House ; and the City Government of 
Manchester. 

The Third Division, under Col. Hooker of Brattleboro, 
with an imposing staff of mounted officers, was the crowning 
feature of the procession, composed as it was of the war vet- 
erans of Vermont in their every-day attire, rough and ready 
for duty in the hour of their country's danger. The First 
Brigade, embracing the southern county battalions, numbered 



30 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

about 250 men ; the Second, Col. Butterfield, was 300 strong ; 
the Third, Col. Tracy, from Rutland and Addison counties, 
125 men ; and the Fourth, made up of the yeomanry of 
Washington, Orange, Lamoille, Orleans, Essex and Caledonia 
counties, 600 strong ; making a total of about 1300 men. 

THE PROCESSION MOVES. 

At precisely 9.30, the procession, which had been formed 
upon the various streets near the depot, began the line of 
march through the beautiful village. Every available seat upon 
the sidewalks, the house-tops and limbs of trees was occupied 
by spectators. The waving of flag*, the huzzas from the 
crowd, and the hearty welcome poured from both old and 
young were acknowledged by the veterans in oft-repeated 
cheers for the ladies and patriotic decorations. Along School, 
Main, Silver, Union, South, and other streets, the completed 
and tasteful displays were almost innumerable. Upon every 
hand were to be seen flags of all nations, and arches bearing 
patriotic mottos. The music from the bands playing old- 
fashioned tunes as the pageant moved along, resounded through 
the lofty sides of the surrounding mountains. 

This was the most imposing procession ever seen in Vermont. 
It was over three miles in length, numbered at a fair estimate 
40,000 people, and was witnessed by 25,000 persons. The 
• noticeable parts of the procession were the creditable marching 
of the First Regiment, N. G. of Vermont ; the appearance of 
the Putnam Phalanx, composed of an elderly, solid class of 
men of Hartford, and the soldierly appearance of the New 
Hampshire troops and the Vermont Veterans. These latter 
drew cheer after cheer, and the enthusiasm reached its climax 
when a body of 300, with banner inscribed " Spunky La- 
moille," made its appearance. When the Veterans passed the 
triumphal arch, hearty cheers were given. 

An attractive feature of the procession were the Amoskeag 
Veterans, who were as enthusiastically cheered by the citizens 
as were the home troops. 

ARRIVAL AT CAMP STARK. 

When the head of the column reached the entrance to Camp 
Stark, an immense throng of people were already there to 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. $1 

welcome it. Gov. Fairbanks, who occupied a landau, drawn 
by four magnificent bay horses, was welcomed not only by 
Vermonters, but by those who had come from different and 
distant points. The barouche conveying Gen. Banks, Hon. 
Richard Frothingham, Hon. George B. Loring and Hon. W. 
H. H. Bingham, was received with loud cheers. Also the 
barouche conveying Gov. Connor of Maine and Gen. Cilley. 

The column halted on arriving at the pavilion tent. The 
Chief Marshal and staff then escorted His Excellency Horace 
Fairbanks, Vermont's Centennial Governor, and all distin- 
guished guests, to the places assigned them. The military 
were then dismissed, and the procession broke up. 

EXERCISES AT THE PAVILION. 

The orators' tent was nearly filled when the distinguished 
guests arrived and took their places on the platform. Among 
the notable men present was the Secretary of State, Hon. 
Wm, M. Evarts, who came in advance of the Presidential 
party, from his Windsor residence; Governor Fairbanks; Ex- 
Governors Hall, Fletcher, Stewart, Smith; Honorables L. P. 
Poland, E. W. Stoughton; Senators Edmunds and Morrill; 
Governors Prescott, Connor, Van Zandt; Generals Hawley, 
Banks and Robinson, with some fifty other prominent men, 
occupied seats on the platform. Hon. E. J. Phelps, President 
of the Vermont Centennial Commission and of the day, intro- 
duced Rev. Isaac Jennings, of Bennington, who offered the 
opening prayer in a few well chosen words. President Phelps 
then made an eloquent and appropriate address of welcome to 
the invited guests. He stated that the State of Vermont com- 
memorated the one hundredth anniversary of her birth and the 
happy and prosperous termination of the first century of her 
existence as an independent State. To-morrow they would 
signalize one of the most important victories of the Revolution. 
To-day was devoted to the victories not less renowned — not 
less fruitful — the victories of peace. [Applause.] To all 
assembled there, whether as friends or strangers to the distin- 
guished guest, to all the children of Vermont, from near or far, 
gathered to honor the centennial birthday of their native land. 



32 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

he was charged to extend a kindly, a courteous, a generous 
welcome. [Applause.] Richer States might tender more 
splendid hospitalities, more imposing ceremonies — theirs were 
plain and simple as befitted the habits of their people. The 
day was consecrated to the past, sacred to the memories of the 
men who have laid broad and deep foundations of free institu- 
tions. Not only were they there to honor the leaders, but the 
rank and file, who, unheralded and unknown, gave to the 
State the best they had. Without their virtue and patriotism 
the master spirits would have planned and toiled in vain. 
That noble race have passed away, and some of their imme- 
diate descendants were among their welcome guests. The 
speaker, after paying an eloquent tribute to the valor, patriot- 
ism and loyalty of the sons of Vermont, concluded amid 
enthusiastic plaudits. 

mrs. Julia c. r. dorr's poem — Vermont. 

This poem was an admirable production of the gifted Ver- 
mont poetess. It was read very finely by Professor J. W. 
Churchill of Andover. He seemed to breathe the true spirit of 
the poem in his elocution. 

woman-f^rm, majestic, strong and fair, 
Sitting- enthroned where in upper air 

Thy mountain-peaks in solemn grandeur rise, 
Piercing the splendor of the summer skies,— 
Vermont ! Our mighty mother, crowned to-day 
In all the glory of thy hundred years. 
If thou dost bid me sing, how can I but obey ? 
What tl ough the lips may tremb e, and the verse 
That fain would g 5 andly thy grand deeds rehearse 
May trip and falter, and the stammering tongue 
Leaves all unrhymed the rhymes that should be sung ? 

1 can but do thy bidding, as is meet, 
Bowing in humble homage at thy feet— 
Thy ro\ al reet— an if my words are weak. 

O crowned One, 'twas thou didst bid me speak ! 

Yet what is the^e to say, 
Even o i this proud day, 
This day of days, that hath not oft been said ? 




REFERENCES. 

1. Walloomsac House, Bennington Center. 

2. site of Catamount Tavern, " " 

8. Old Church, upon site of original 1st Church and 
Cemetery where dead from battle-field of Ben- 
nington are buried. 

4. Centennial encampment and grounds. 

5. Purnam House. 6. Stark House. 

7. Post Office. 8. Railroad station. 

9. Gates House. 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 33 

What song- is there to sing 

That hath Tiot oft been sung? 
What laurel can we bring. 

That Ages have not hung 
A thousand times above their glorious dead? 
What crown to crown the living 
Is left us for our giving. 
That is not shaped to other brows 

That wore i' long ago? 
Our very vo^vs but echo vows 

Breathed centuries ago ! 
Eai th has no cral strain, 

No swee or sad refrain, 
ISTo lofty paean s^> elling loud and clear, 
That Virgil did not know, 
Or Dante, w inhering slow 
In mystic t ances, did not pause to hear ! 

And yet, -O Farth, thank God :— the soul of song 

Is as imm rtal as the eternal stars ! 
O, trembling heart ! take courage and be strong, 

Hark ! to a voice from yonder crystal bars : 

" Did the roses b!ow T last June ? 

Do the stars still rise and set ? 
And over the crests of the mountains 

Are the light clouds floating yet ? 
Do the rivers run to the sea 

With a deep resistless flow ? 
Do the little birds sing north and south 

As the seasons come and go ? 

•" Are the hills as fair as of old ? 

Are the skies as blue and far ? 
Have you lost the pomp of the sunset 

Or ihe light of the evening star? 
Has the glory gone from The morning? 

Do the wild winds wail no more ? 
Is there now no thunder of billows 

Beating the storm-lashed shore ? 

"Is Love a forgotten story? 
Is Passion a jester's theme ? 
Has Valor i brown down its armor ? 
Is Honor an idle dream ? 



34 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

Is there no pure trust in woman ? 

No conquering- faith in God ? 
Are there no feet strong- to follow 

In the paths the martyrs trod ? 

"Did you find no hero graves 

When your violets bloomed last May— 
Prouder than those of Marathon, 

Or * old Flatea"s day '? 
When yoar white and red and blue 

On the free winds fluttered out, 
Were there no strong hearts and voices 
To receive it with a shout ? 
Oh ! let the earth grow old ! 
And the burning stars grow cold ! 
And. if you will, declare man's story told ! 
Yet, pure as faith is pure, 
And sure as death is sure, 
As long as love shall live, shall sang endure !" 

But this— the one that gave thee birth 
A hundred years ago, O bea'iteou^ mother ! 
This mighty century hath a mightier brother, 

Who from the watching earth 
Passed but last year ! Twin-born indeed were they- 
For what are twelve months to the womb of time 
Pregnant with ages ?— Hand in hand they climbed 
With clear young eyes uplifted to the stars, 
With great strong souls that never stopped for bars, 
Through storm and darkness up to glorious day I 
Each knew the other's need ; each in his breast 
Q he subtle tie of closest kin confessed ; 
Counted the other's honor as his own ; 
Nor feared to sit upon a separate throne ; 
Nor loved each other less when— wond. ous fate !— 
One gave a nation life, and one a state ! 

But what to us are centuries dead, 
And rolling years forever fled, 
Compared with thee, O grand and fair 
Vermont— our Goddess-mother ? 
Strong with the strength of thy verdant hills, 
Fresh with the freshness of mountain rills, 
Pure as the breath of the fragrant pine, 
Glad with the gladness of youth divine, 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 35 

Serenely thou sittest throned to-day 
Where the free winds that round thee play 
Rejoice in thy waves of sun-bright hair, 

O thou, our glorious mother ! 
Rejoice in thy beautiful strength and say 

Earth holds not such another ! 
Thou art not old with thy hundred years, 
Nor worn with toil, or care, or tearn ; 
But'all the glow of thy summer-time 
Is thine to-day in thy glorious prime ! 
Thy brow is fair as the winter snows, 
With a stately calm in its still repose ; 

While the breath of the rose the wild bee s ! ps 
Half mad with joy, cannot eclipse 
Tne marvellous sweetness of t y lips ; 
And the deepest b ue of the laughing skies 
Hides in the depths of thy tearless eyes, 
Gazing afar over land and sea 
Wherever thy wandering children be ! 

Fcldon fold, 
Over thy form of grandest mold, 
Floweth thy robe of forest green, 
Now light, now dark, in its emerald sheen. 
Its broidered hem is of wild flowers rare, 
With feathery fern-fronds ligh as air 
Fringing its borders. In thy hair 
Sprays of the pink arbutus twine. 
And the curling rings of the wild grapevine. 
Thy girdle is woven of silver streams ; 
Its clasp with the opaline lust: e gleams 
Of a lake asleep in the sunset beams ; 

And, half concealing 

And half revealing, 
Floats over all a veil of mist 
Pale tinted with rose and amethyst ! 

Rise up, O noble mother of great sons, 
Worthy to rank among earth's mightiest ones, 
And daughters fair and beautif al and good, 
Yet wise and strong in loftiest womanhood- 
Rise from thy throne, and standing f^r and high 
Outlined against the blue, adoring sky, 
Lift up thy voice, and stretch thy loving hands 
In benediction o'er the waiting lands ! 



36 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

Take thou our fealty ! at thy feet we bow, 

Glad to renew each oft-repeated, vow. 

No costly gifts we bring- to thee to-day ; 

No v >tive wreaths upon thy shrine we lay ; 

Take thou our hearts, then !— hearts that fain would he 

From this day forth, O goddess, worthier thee ! 

THE ORATION. 

The oration of the day came next. Hon. Daniel C. Roberts, 
of Burlington, one of Vermont's most distinguished jurists, 
being the chosen speaker. It was a very able and interesting 
paper, and was delivered with clear and effective elocution, 
arid frequently applauded. The civil history of the State, 
from an early day, was traced in a comprehensive manner. 
As Mr. Roberts' address related almost wholly to past events 
in Vermont's history, we do not feel that the public desire for 
this lengthy review of the days of our forefathers would war- 
rant its entire publication in this work, to the exclusion of the 
record of events and scenes of Centennial week, and as no 
abstract will do the orator justice, the writer will merely give 
the closing portion of the paper referring to the not distant 
past. 

Mr. Roberts concluded as follows: — 

So if we consider the part taken by Vermonters in the wars which 
nave arisen since the Revelation, it may be claimed, of them, that they 
have not disgraced the memories of the men who took Ticonderoga, 
and conquered at Bennington. Thus Lake Champlain and Pittsburgh 
cheered the rush of the Vermont farmers, to repel the British invasion 
of 1814. So in 1861, the gun fired on Sumter was heard in every ham- 
let in Vermont. Vermont sent, forth to the fray some thirty-four 
thousand of. her sons, and they so fought as to make the name of 
Vermont and the Vermont Brigade a historic fiflory, and so died, to 
the number of five thousand in the shock of battle, as only heroes 
know how to die. "' hus far, in spirit of freedom and self-sacrifice, in 
patriotic devotion and heroic courage. I note no degeneracy 

From this little hive and nursery of men. how many have gone forth 
to the West, to the great marts of commerce, and wherever the spirit 
of adventure has impelled, carrying with them the temper and training 
of their birthplace, and planting in virgin fields the seed germs they 
gathered in boyhood upon these mountain sides. This seed of Ver- 
mont has bourgeoned into harvests to the enrichment of many states , 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 37 

and we rejoice to-day to welcome the return of so many of the sons of 
Vermont, bringing to our festival golden sheaves. One hundred years 
hence, wren Vermont shall celebrate the second centennial year of 
her life as a State,— when search among the musty papers of the then 
Vermont Historical Society, to find record of the doings of this first 
centennial year, shall withdraw from oblivion these poor words which 
now stir the air,— may they, who shall then gather to look upon 1 he- 
monuments which we now rear as memorials of a heroic age, as they 
look back over the field of Vermont history for two hundred years, 
and compare the past with the then present, find a state and people- 
softened by culture, yet true to the spirit of the primeval state and of 
those who founded it,— a people free, independent, intelligent, indus- 
trious, sober, honest, conservative of the good, aggressive towards the; 
wrong, virtuous, religious,— a happy people whose God is the Lord. 

After the oration, brief addresses were made by Generals 
Hawley and Banks, ex-Gov. Harriman of New Hampshire, 
Gov. Connor of Maine, Gov. Van Zandt of Rhode Island, 
and others. The literary exercises were interspersed with 
patriotic instrumental music, finely rendered by the Sherman 
Band of Winooski, and the Fisherville (N. H.) Band. Letters 
of regret and declination were read from the Governor-General 
of Canada, John G. Whittier, Gen. Sheridan, George William 
Curtis, Rev. Dr. Chapin, and others. It was past noon when 
the exercises were concluded, and the large assembly dispersed, 
to greet the Presidential party, who were to honor Vermont 
by their presence before sundown. 



CHAPTER V. 

President Hayes and Cabinet Arrive on Vermont's Centemtial 
Day. — A Public Reception at the Walloomsac House in the 
Evening. — Close of <( Vermont Day." 

PHE visit of President Hayes to Bennington was a per- 
|A|j feet ovation, and was in itself an event of sufficient 
significance to attract thousands from all parts of trie 
State. The coming of the President was eagerly expected, 
and long before the hour announced for the arrival of the train 
crowds nocked to the grounds and streets in the vicinity of 
the depot, requiring the united efforts of the local police, sec- 
onded by a detail of soldiers, to restrain the multitude within 
the prescribed limits. 

About half past three the First Regiment, National Guards 
of Vermont, Col. Peck, and the several companies of New 
Hampshire militia, the whole forming a brigade, the comiriand 
of which was given to Gen. J. M. Clough, marched down 
from Camp Stark with bands playing, the colors flying, and 
were drawn in line to receive the President. The special train 
conveying the President's party consisted of one baggage car, 
and the private palace car, " Vanderbilt," of the President of 
the New York Central Railroad. At Troy, the President was 
met by Col. Geo. A. Merrill, of the Vermont Centennial Com- 
mission, and Col. Harrington, of Washington, who went down 
from Bennington in the morning. The train arrived at Hoosac 
Junction at 2.25, and at this point Adjutant General Peck 
greeted the President, and in behalf of the Governor wel- 
comed him to the State. 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 39 

AT NORTH BENNINGTON. 

North Bennington was reached at 3.15, and when the train 
pulled up at the station, there were hundreds of people who 
came down from distant points back from the railroads -to 
welcome the Chief Magistrate. The train, precisely at three 
o'clock, crossed the State line and entered Vermont. The 
President was in good spirits, and felt none the worse for his 
journey. After the introduction to the President of those 
who had joined the train at Hoosac Junction, he engaged in 
general conversation. The boundary line between New York 
and Vermont was pointed out to him, and the President ex- 
pressed himself highly gratified that he had once more entered 
the Green Mountain State to add his presence to that of 
thousands who had come to pay tribute to the honored dead 
of the Revolution. 

At 3.40, the long whistle of a locomotive announced the 
approach of the train, and a buzz of excitement ran through 
the assembled multitude. The train halted in front of the 
depot, and immediately the President, accompanied by Gov. 
Fairbanks, stepped out upon the platform and passed directly 
to an open barouche, drawn by four spirited horses. The 
appearance of President Hayes was the signal for the outburst 
of the enthusiasm of the throng, which found vent in repeated 
and hearty cheers from the male portion, while the ladies 
waved their handkerchiefs and applauded the distinguished 
visitor. The troops saluted the President, who rose and with 
uncovered head acknowledged the greeting. Following the 
President came Mrs. Hayes and Miss Waite, under escort of 
Colonels Merrill and Harrington of Washington, Attorney 
General Devens, Secretary McCrary, Postmaster General Key, 
Mr. Webb C. Hayes and the other gentlemen accompanying 
the President, all of whom entered carriages in waiting, which 
fell into line between the Vermont troops and the New Hamp- 
shire militia. The column moved through River, North and 
Main streets to Bennington Center, and halted in front of the 
residence of Rev. Mr. Tibbetts, who entertained the President 
during his stay in Bennington. 



4<~> THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

RECEPTION OF THE PRESIDENT AT THE WALLOOMSAC HOUSE. 

Notwithstanding the rain continued to fall after nightfall, 
it had no effect to lessen the crowd who were upon the streets, 
filling the hotels, and visiting the many private residences 
which were brilliantly illuminated throughout the town ; but 
the great event of the evening was the reception held by the 
President in the parlors of the Walloomsac House, near the 
Mount Anthony Observatory, Bennington Center. Long be- 
fore nightfall crowds began vending their way toward the hotel. 
The military detailed as a guard were the Ransom Guards, 
under the command of Captain John W. Newton, and the 
New England Guards, Captain Curtis. They were placed in 
charge of the hotel and its entrances, to keep the crowd from 
encroaching upon the beautifully adorned grounds, and from 
filling the parlors, bent upon shaking the hand of the President. 

Considerable delay occurred before the arrival of the Pres- 
ident and party. Eight o'clock was the hour appointed for 
the beginning of the reception, but it was nearly nine before 
the President, accompanied by Governor Fairbanks, arrived. 
The President immediately took his position in the brilliantly 
lighted parlors, surrounded by a detail of the National Guard. 
Col. Harrington, Aid to the President, and Superintendent of 
Census at Washington, took position beside His Excellency 
to introduce the callers. The Ransom Guard Battalion Band 
struck up a lively air, from the outside of the hotel, and the 
impatient visitors from without were admitted to shake hands 
with President Hayes. For two hours an almost endless 
crowd of people, old and young, rich and poor, crippled and 
infirm, passed before the President, heartily shaking his hand. 
Secretaries Evarts and AlcCrary, Postmaster General Key, 
and Attorney General Devens, arrived somewhat behind time, 
but took position on the right of the President, and were cor- 
dially received by the visitors. 

The President and members of the Cabinet present were in 
apparent good spirits, and were cordially received as they were 
severally introduced by Col. A. B. Jewett of Gov. Fairbanks' 
staff. The excellent music bv the Ransom Guard Band drew 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 41 

together a large concourse of people, who applauded upon the 
conclusion of each selection of music. Fireworks could be 
seen illuminating the heavens from almost every direction, and 
at nearly midnight the distinguished visitors left for their 
abodes, the crowd dispersed, and out of thirty thousand vis- 
itors that day ten thousand people slumbered within the pre- 
cincts of Bennington, while the neighboring towns were full 
of visitors. 




CHAPTER VI. 

''THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON." 

A Glorious Anniversary Day. — Massachusetts Civic and Mili- 
tary Representatives Honor the Occasion. — A Detail Resume' 
of the Imposing Procession. — A Reviezv by the Presidential 
Party. — Speeches by the President and Cabinet. 

|HILE darkness yet shrouded the historic village of 
* Bennington, on the morning of the one hundredth 
55 anniversary of the great battle, a distinguished party 
of civic and military representatives from the old Bay State 
arrived, by a special train of Pullman cars, at the Centennial 
grounds. On the 16th of August, 1777, this grand Old Com- 
monwealth was at Bennington also. Three hundred of her 
sturdy, Berkshire mountain patriots "came up," while the 
Vermonter's "came down," — as Sheridan did at Winchester — 
and drove back the invaders. Massachusetts has a grateful 
remembrance of that great victory, and, as a substantial token 
of her patriotism — which has ever been of sterling worth — she 
has contributed the sum of $7,500 toward the erection of the 
proposed monument; and on this memorable day honored, not 
only Vermont, but herself also, in the presence of her chosen 
Executive, legislative and military representatives. The dis- 
tinguished party left Boston on the morning of Wednesday 
the 15th of August, in a special train for Bennington via. 
Hoosac Tunnel. It was a matter of regret that Gov. Rice 
was not able to be present, but a fitting representative for his 
Excellency was had in Lieut. Gov. Knight. The Legislative 
party numbered some two hundred. The names of this dis- 
tinguished party will be found in the order of procession, for 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 43 

the Battle day. As special escort for this occasion, came the 
celebrated Boston Cadet Corps, with their splendid band of 
twenty-six pieces, commanded by Lieut. - Col. Thomas F. 
Edmands. Their history is one to be proud of, dating back 
to 1 741. As the Governor's Body Guard for more than one 
hundred years, the Boston Cadet Corps are deserving of 
special mention, not only for their splendid appearance, and 
perfect drill, but for their gentlemanly deportment as soldiers, 
and as citizens. Their history from 1741 to August 17th, 
1877, we shall give in Part Second of this work 

THE DAWN OF THE BATTLE DAY. 

The thunder of artillery reverberated through the valley of 
the Walloomsac at sunrise. It came from the four British 
cannon captured one hundred years ago. The New Hamp- 
shire troops, now, as then, made known their presence in a very 
effective manner, the salute being fired by the Portsmouth 
Artillery Company, Capt. Vaughan. The bells joined their 
voices to the general expression of patriotism, and soon mili- 
tary and civic bodies were preparing for the ''Second Battle 
of Bennington." The Tibbits Corps of Troy, an organization 
composed of Veteran soldiers, and a gallant body of men — 
under Colonel Joseph Egolf, accompanied by Dorings' cele- 
brated Band, arrived early in the day. Tibbets Cadets, a 
fine junior company of Troy, under Capt. J. H. Patten, also 
came to do honor to the great day. The Burleigh Corps 
from Whitehall arrived in time for the grand procession and 
made a creditable appearance. 

Gov. Fairbanks, Chief Magistrate of Vermont, with such of 
his staff as were convenient, and with other such guests as he 
chose to invite, with a retinue of carriages fitted for the occa- 
sion, drove from their headquarters on the centennial field 
out to the Mt. Anthony home of the American President to 
escort him to the old Walloomsac House, in Bennington 
Center, which is only a few rods away from the Catamount 
Tavern, where the Battle Monument Association's granite 
tablet is erected, awaiting the bronze catamount that will ere 



44 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

long represent the "actual animal" that a century ago barecf 
its teeth towards all the enemies of the "rising State of Ver- 
mont." 

On the open grounds which make the pleasant little park 
between the Walloomsac House and the old burial grounds, 
where heroes and Hessians have slept for a century, side by 
side, under the shade of Vermont's first church, Col. Peck's 
full Regiment of the National Guard of Vermont were in 
line, with arms at "present" to receive the Nation's Exec- 
utive. There can be no better pageant produced in imagination 
or in fact than the march of the military escort, accompanied 
by their distinguished guests, from the historic street of " Old 
Bennington Hill " down the hillside highway to the village in 
the Walloomsac valley, where the cavalcade of thousands of 
soldiers, veterans and citizens were forming, to honor the 
deeds and the days that had brought them together. 

The place of formation for the procession was on the north- 
ern line of the village, and along the railroad leading from the 
north and south, where Chief Marshal Valentine had "massed 
in divisions " five thousand and more soldiers and citizens, 
bands, batteries and organizations, on foot, mounted and in 
carriages, who were to form the grandest cavalcade that ever 
marched through a New England city or village. 

FORMATION OF THE GRAND PROCESSION ON THE CENTENNIAL 

ANNIVERSARY OF BENNINGTON'S BATTLE, AUGUST l6, 1877. 

PLATOON OP POLICE. 

A. B. VALENTINE, Chief Marshal. 

ASSISTANTS TO THE CHIEF MARSHAL. 

Gen. J. N. Patterson of New Hampshire, Col. Isaac F. Kingsbury 
of Massachusetts. 

CHIEF MARSHAL'S STAFF. 

Maj. E. N, S. Morgan, Chief of Staff; Col. L h. Goulding, Adju- 
tant General; Maj. S. H. Brown, Hod. J. S. Martin, H. G. hoot, E. 
L. Roberts, O. B. Lawton, Charles E. Dewey, Barber Chase, J. K. 
Batchelder, M. B. Morgan, H. B. Baldwin, Col. H. B. Clark, Col. A. 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL 45 

G. Watson, G. Hayden Day, C. R. Sanford, Olin Scott, Jarr es White, 
G, B. Sibley, Capt. H. L. Shields, H. B. Kent, George M. Smith, Park 
Valentine, Orrin D. Adams, Wm. E. Hawks, C. H. Forbes, H. E. 
Branford, W. A. hoot, Col. A. B. Franklin, J. W. neebe, E. S. Sibley. 

Transom Guard Band, 24 pieces. First Regiment National Guard 
of Vermont, Col. T S! Peck commanding-, with a cannon captured 
from the British in the battle of Bennington, August 16, 1777, in 
charge of a detail from Fuller's Battery, National Guard of Ver- 
mont, escortmg tl e procession. 

Park Guard Band. Park Guard- of Bennington, (Company K, 
F rst Regiment. National Guard of Vermont.) Capt. N. O. Wilcox 
commanding, escorting His Fxcellency Horace Fairb nk-, Gov- 
ern r and Comm mder-in-Chief and ^aff. S tiff— Brig. Gen. Jnines 
S. Peck, Adjutant and inspector Gener il ; Brig. Gen. Levi G. Kmgs- 
le , Quartermaster General; Brig. Gen. Joel h. Lucia, Judge 
Advocate general; Henry C. New- 11, Surgeon General; Col. John 
A. Sheldon, < hief of Staff Aides— Col. J. J. Estey, Col. Al\in C. 
Hubbell, Col A. W. Hastings, Col. William W. Grout, C 1. W. G. 
Veazey, Col. William Wells, col. Koswell Famham, Col. A. B. 
Jewett, Col. W. P. DTlmgham, Col. Frederick E. Smith. A. E. Ran- 
kin, Secretary Civil and Military Affairs 

Hon. E. J. Phelps, Lhairman of the Bennington Centennial Corn- 
miss on and President of the Day. Company of Veteran Soldkrs 
derail- d from the Reunion Organizat on as special hscorttothe 
President of the United Si ates. Cabinet— Hon. W illiam M Evarts, 
Secretary of State ; Hon. Charles Devens, Attorney General; Hon. 
George * . Meorary, Secretary of War ; Hon. Da\id M. Key, Post- 
master-General, 

FIRST DIVISION. 

Col. \V. G. Veazey, Marshal, comma ding. Staff— Major E. J. 
Ormsbee, Col. M. S. Colburn. Capt. F. a. Murse, Col. K. Hastings, 
Capt. E, H. Armstrong, Major R. B. *mes. Brandon Cornet Band. 
Putnam Phalanx Fife and Drum Corps. Putnam Phalanx, of 
Hartiord, Conn., Major F. M. Brown command ng. Hon Hiland 
Hall First Vice President Vermont Centennial Commission. The 
Orator of the nay, Ptesident Bartlett of Dartmouth Coliege. r ihe 
Vice President of the United tates. Chief Justice M. k. Waite, 
United States Supreme Court. Bennington Battle Monument As- 
sociation. Executive Comm ttee— Hon. A. B. Gardner A. B.Val- 
entine, A. P. Chdds, Charles E. Dewey. Olin Sc tt. Members of the 
Association. Vermont Centennial Commission— First Vice Pres- 
ident, Hon. Hiland Hall. Executive Committee -Hon. Henry G. 
Root, Chairman; Hon. M. C. Huling, a. B. Valentine, Hon George 
A. Merrill, Hon C. S. Page, Charles M. Bliss, Secretary. Members 
of the Commission. United .states Senators and Representatives 



46 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

in Congress. Vice Admiral S. C. Rowan, United States Navy. 
Governors of States. His Excellency Selden Connor, Governor of 
Mane. S'aff— Brig. Gen. J. P. Cilley, Adjutant General : Brig. Gen. 
C. W. Tilden, Inspector General ; Col. H. N. Small, Assistant Sur- 
geon General; Col. H. H. Burbank, Assistant Judge Adv cate ; 
Lieut. Col. J. B. Parks, assistant Commissary General. Aides-de- 
Camp— Lieut Col. F. C. Heath, Lieut. Col. Philo Hersey, Lieut Col. 
J. W. Spaulding, Lieut. Col. J. C. Richards. His Excellency Charles 

C. Van Zandt, Governor of Rhode Island. Staff— Brig. Gen. H. C. 
Favour, Adjutant General ; Col. S. R. Hovey, Chief of staff. Aides 
—Col. F. G. Allen. Col. J. P. sanborn, Col. Charles Potter, Col. 
George T. French, Col. J. W. Cozzens, Col. A. Prescott Baker. Hon. 
John Adderman, Secretary of Stale. His Excellency S. M. Cullom, 
Governor of Illinois. His Excellency H. M. Matthews, Governor 
of West Virginia. His Excellency H. L. Ludington, Governor of 
Wisconsin. His Excellencv George F. Drew, Governor of Florida. 
Governors of other States. Distinguished guests. 

SECOND DIVISION. 

Col. George W. Hooker, Marshal, commanding. Staff— Col. D. 

D. Wheeler, Charles Lawrence, Major R. M. Gould, C. M. Russell, 

C. L. Piper, Dr. D. P. Webster, S. H. Bowker, Horace Birchard, 

D. D., D. S. Pratt, W. H. Willard, A. Starke}^, A. J. Tucker, A. H. 
Fisher, A. E. Bingham. Gen. W. W. Lynde, Col. N. C. Sawyer, Major 

B. H. Jenne, G. H. Babbitt, H. F. Brooks, Capt. H. E. Taylor. B. F. 
Phelps, G. E. sellick, R. M. Silsby, N. D. Hawley, Gilman Warren, 

C. F. E^tabrook A. R. Duuklee, G. T. Witherell. 

Veteran Soldiers' Reunion. Col. James H. Walbridge command- 
ing, and Staff. Sherman Band. Fourth Brigade, Col. F.V.Ran- 
dall commanding, and Staff. Guests of the Reunion. State Gov- 
ernment of Vermont. Executive Department— His Honor Redfield 
Proctor, Lieutenant-Governor; Hon. George Nichols, Secretary of 
State; Hon. John A. Page, Treasurer; Hon. Jed P. Ladd, Auditor. 
The State Judiciary— Hon. John Pierrepont, Chief Justice; Hon. 
James Barrett, Hon. Homer E. Royce, Hon. Timothy P. Redfield, 
Hon. Jonathan Ross, Hon. H. Henry Powers, Hon. Walter C. 
Dunton, Justices. The Senate of Vermont— Hon. William W. 
Grout. President pro rem.; F. W.Baldwin, Secretary. The House 
of Representatives— Hon. John W. Stewart, Speaker; George R. 
Chapman Clerk. Ex-Governors of Vermont, ether Civic and 
Military Organizations of Vermont, Bennington Fire Department. 

THIRD DIVISION. 

Gen. W. W. Henry, Marshal, commanding. Staff— Major P. Farr, 
Chief of Staff ; James B. Scully, George Austin, A. Austin, Buel J. 
Derby. Manchester Cornet Band. Amoskeag Veterans of Man- 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL, 47 

Chester, N. H., Major A.C.Wallace commanding, escorting His 
ExceUency B. F. Prescott, Governor of New Hampshire, staff- 
ed. Solon A Carter, Chief of Staff; Col. B. W. Hoyt, Col. John 
Bracewell, Col. George L. Ordway, Col. A. W. Quint, Col. M. A. 
Hayes, Col. Charles A. Gills, Col. J. E. Pecker, Col. George H. 
Stowell, Col. Charles H. Greenleaf, < ol. Ossian Ray. E .ecutive 
Council— Hon. J. B. Smith, Hon. John M. Parker, Hon. Fdward 
Spaulding, Hon. Francis A. cu-hman, Hon. .'eremiah Blodgett. 
State Offic>rs— Hon. A. B. Thompson, Secretary of Sta'e ; Solon A. 
Carter, Treasurer; ^ev. Nathaniel Bout >n, Sta'e Historian ; Hon. 
Oliver Pillshury, Insurance Commissioner; Mason W. Tappan, 
Attorney General; Gen. Ira Cross, Adj Hant General; Dr. Gran- 
ville P. Conn, Commissiuner ; Rev. c. A. Downs, Superintendent, of 
Public Instruction; President of the Senate, Hon. Natt Head; 
Speaker of th- House, Hon. A. A. Woo]son. Legis ature of New- 
Hampshire— col. Ch;rles • . Danforth, Clerk of ihe House; A. W. 
Baker, Assistant ClerK of House. Manoke ter War Veterans of 
New Hampshire Militia, Capt. George H. Dodge, escor;ing City 
Government of Manchester, N. H.; 1 on. Ira C<oss, Mayor; Nathan 
P. Kiel er, City Clerk; Hon. H. R. Cliamberlain, City Treas rer ; 
Hon. JoUn M. Stanton, Pr sident of Common Council. Brown's 
Band. Battalion of New Hampshire Militia, col. D. M. White com- 
manding. Manchester W*r Veterans, Company I, First Regiment, 
Capt. George H. Dodge commanding ; Portsmouth Heavy Artillery, 
Company K, First hegiment, Capt. D. J. Va ghan comm.nding; 
Gov. Cheney Guards, Peterboro', Company B. First regiment, C;=pt. 
J.F.Moore coinmnding; Strafford guards, Dover, Company A, 
Second Regiment, Capt. J. S. Ahbott commanding; Hi sdaie 
Guards, Company C, Second Regiment, Capt. Horace Hosford com- 
manding ;- State Capital Guard. Cone rd, Company K, Second 
Regiment, Capt. George M. Felt commanding; Commissioned 
Officers New Hampshire State Militia. 

FOURTH DIVISION. 

Col. John E. Pratt, Marsnal, commanding. Staff— Capt. E. C. 
Houghton, Capt. A. G. P tter, H. S. Bingham, J. V. Hupf, Andrew 
Keyes, Fred Pratt. Boston Cadet Band, 26 pieces, J. C. Mullaly, 
Band Master. First Corps or Cadets, Lieut. Col. Thomas F. Ed- 
mands commanding, escorting His Excellency Alexander H. Rice, 
Governor of Massachusytts. Staff— Major Gen. James A. Cunning- 
ham, Adjutant General; Col. J. F. Kingsbury, Assistant Adjutant 
General; Col. C. Frank Luther. Assistant adjutant General; Col. 
John H. R^'ce, Assistant Adjutant General ; Brig. Gen. O. G. At- 
wood, Inspector General; Col. E. G. Ste^ens, Assistant Inspector 
General ; Lieut . Col A. H. Rice, Assistant Inspector General ; Lieut. 
Col. F. Mason, Assistant Inspector General ; Col. Henry G. Parker, 



48 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

Assistant Quartermaster General ; Brig. Gen. Wilmar W. Black- 
mar, Judge Advocate General : Brig. Gen. William J. Dale, Surgeon 
General; Col. John B. Tread well. Assistant Surgeon General, 
Aides— Col. Wm. V Hutchings, Col. \rthur T. Lyman, C«»l. Wm. A. 
Forier, Col. Wm. P. Alexander; CoJ. George H. Campbell, Military 
Secretary. His Honor Horatio G. Knight. Lieutenant Governor. 
€ouncil— Hon. George Whitney, Hon. Jo.-eph K. Baker, Hon. Har- 
rison Tweed, Hon. J. A. Harwoud, 1 on. William C. Plunkett, Hon. 
Hugh Poland, Hon. William Cogswell, Hon. Francis Childs. Hon. 
Henry B. Pierce, Secretary of state ; Hon. Charles Fndicott, Treas- 
urer and Receiver General; Hon. Julius L. Clark, uditor of 
Accounts. Sergeant-at-Arms, O. F. Mitchell. The Legislature of 
Massachusetts. President of the Senate, Hon. J. B. D. Cogswell; 
Clerk of the Senate, S.-N. Gifford ; Speaker of the House, Hon. 
John D. Long ; Clerk of the House, George A. Marsden. 

FIFTH DIVISION. 

Col. L. K. Fuller, Marshal, commanding. Staff— Major H. B. 
Chase, Chiei of Staff; Capt. K. B. mes, G. S. Dowley, Capt. S. H. 
Kelley, R. M, Luther, G. C. Noble, J. G. Martin, R. C. Mitchell, A. 
R. Dunklee. Doring's Band, of Troy, N. Y. Tibbett's Corps, N. G. 
S. N. Y., Col. Egolpn c< mmander. Tiboett's Cadets, 7th Company, 
N. G. S. N. Y., Capt, J, H. Potter commanding. Fuller Battery, 
N. G.. of Vermont, Lieut, Charles R. Briggs commanding 

ALONG THE LINE OF MARCH. 
From the depot the procession commenced its triumphal 
march through Bennington's main street. Over the street the 
festoonery of flags of every description, triumphant arches, 
mottoes of welcome and the emblazonment of gorgeous and 
patriotic display met the marching thousands along its whole 
length. Nearly every house was decorated; every portico and 
verandah was filled with welcoming guests, scattering bouquets 
and waving handkerchiefs, innumerable flags and hearty 
cheers, expressed the joy and good cheer that prevailed every- 
where and with everybody. 

The President and accompanying members of his Cabinet 
formed the principal feature of interest in the column. The 
President's reception in Vermont, and his ride in the pro- 
cession partook of the nature of a triumph. The enthusiasm 
ran wild, and deafening cheers from the assembled thousands 
greeted him in a continuous roll along the entire route. Sec- 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 49 

retary Evarts and his accompanying associates also created 
much enthusiasm, and acknowledged the salutes of the peo- 
ple by riding uncovered and bowing. At one point several 
rich bouquets were thrown into the carriage in which President 
Hayes rode with Gov. Horace Fairbanks of Vermont. The 
President acknowledged the tributes of applause to him by 
a slight inclination of the head. He did not appear to desire 
to encourage exuberant manifestations by frequent and con- 
spicuous bowing. As in yesterday's procession, the crowd 
was thickest at the grand Arch. At this point the cheers 
were most deafening. There was a slight delay on Main-st., 
of which several persons availed themselves to rush up to the 
President's carriage and shake hands. One of these, a promi- 
nent local politician, remarked, " I like you personally, Mr. 
President, but darn your policy." Mr. Hayes good-humor- 
edly replied: "Come, now, no politics to-day." At all 
points along the route, there was a profuse waving of hand- 
kerchiefs by ladies. 

Among the Governors of New-England who were recog- 
nized by the people were those who spoke yesterday ; also 
Gov. Prescott of New-Hampshire, and Lieut.Gov. Knight of 
Massachusetts. The Legislature of Vermont and New- 
Hampshire walked the entire distance traversed by the pro- 
cession. This fact called out many reminiscences concerning 
the men who came on foot to the same spot, a hundred years 
ago, and aided by the Berkshire County men of Massachu- 
setts, went to the battle of Bennington. Nothing seemed to 
please the people so much as the march of the Vermont and 
New-Hampshire veterans. 

There were 3,000 of them in line to-day, and as each com- 
pany passed the triumphal arch the people raised their hats. 
Col. George W. Hooker riding at the head of the Windham 
County battalion, and Col. F. V. Randall in command of 
41 Spunky Lamoille " veterans drew attention second only to 
the Presidential party. Many distinguished officers in the 
service during the Rebellion were recognized and loudly ap- 
plauded as they passed by. 



50 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

A great attraction of the day's procession was the six 
pound cannon, two in number, captured from the British by 
Gen. Stark. They were guarded by a dismounted detach- 
ment of the Portsmouth, N. H., Heavy Artillery. The Put- 
nam Phalanx, as yesterday, presented a fine appearance. 
The Boston Cadets and Tibbits Corps, from Troy, N. Y. r 
were warmly received along the line of march. The Tibbits 
Corps Cadets, a junior volunteer organization of Troy, dressed 
in a uniform of blue trousers and white coats, added much to 
the attractiveness of the occasion. Vermont's war Governor, 
John Gregory Smith, and Luke P. Poland of this State, were 
recognized by the people and greeted with hearty cheers. 

REVIEW BY PRESIDENT HAYES AND CABINET. 

When the procession arrived at the Centennial field, it 
passed in review before the President, Mrs. Hayes and the 
Cabinet. The President welcomed the procession with brief 
remarks, in which he congratulated the state of Vermont upon 
the felicitous beginning and progress of this centennial occa- 
sion, and referred to the evident interest taken in her one 
hundredth anniversary of two prominent events by the visiting 
officials of sister states, the military and the thousands present r 
Mr. Hayes finished his remarks by introducing the Post- 
master-General as follows: "We have been told that there 
should be in essentials unity, in all things charity. I will 
introduce to you Postmaster-General Key of Tennessee." 

Mr. Key spoke as follows: " I came here to see, and not to 
be seen; to learn, and not to teach. I can remember no more 
gratifying thought than that the historian's record says that, 
in that great struggle which we to-day revere, Washington 
and Allen and Warner were from different parts of the 
country. I thank you." 

President Hayes then introduced Secretary of War Mc- 
Crary, who said: "The day is calculated to impress upon me 
the greatness and grandness of a great nation. A land in 
which I may travel one thousand miles, and yet be among- 
my countrymen — fellow-countrymen of a great nation, who 
all look upon one flag, support one constitution, all love one 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 5 1 

great Union. (Voice in the crowd, "That's it. ") Let us 
improve the occasion, since we know that to defend the 
liberty, the constitution and the Union of what is now this 
great nation was the purpose for which those, whose immortal 
memory we now revere, fought. I am fortunate in being 
permitted to make my first visit to Vermont to-day, a day 
which is interesting not only to all Vermont but all the United 
States. No one, let me hope, has forgotten the events which 
happened in these hallowed grounds one hundred years ago." 

Mr. Hayes again said: "Nothing sure one hundred years 
ago is remembered more freshly to-day than the speech of 
John Stark to his men. Every American knows it, and your 
school-boys can repeat it. The Molly Starks of those days 
were not here. We are more forward. Our Molly Starks are 
here! We have with us to-day a grand-daughter and two 
great-grand-daughters of that immortal general." Mr. Hayes 
then brought the three ladies to the front. 

Mr. Evarts then spoke: "The President has said," began 
he, "that the men of those days were less fortunate than the 
men of to-day. The men to-day have brought their wives 
with them. Allow me the honor and you the pleasure of 
introducing to you Mrs. Hayes." Mrs. Hayes stepped 
forward, holding a nosegay in her left hand. Some gamins 
down in front shouted, "Trot out the boy." 

Secretary McCrary then introduced Mrs. Hayes very hap- 
pily as President Hayes' Molly Stark, which was seconded by 
Secretary Evarts. 



CHAPTER VII. 

The Battle Day at the Orators' and Banquet Pavilions. — 
Speeches, Poems, and Patriotic Exercises. — Banquet Toasts 
and Responses. 

|i H E N President Hayes entered the orators' tent he, 
|blp also Mrs. Hayes, was greeted with enthusiasm by 
N©?3 ^ e lnousan ds who had gathered therein, as well as 
by the large number of greater or lesser personages upon the 
orators' platform. Mrs. Hayes was plainly clad, her hair 
plainly dressed, and she could easily have been mistaken for 
some farmer's wife, blessed with good looks, sense, and beau- 
tiful teeth. The venerable Rev. Allen, of North Woodstock, 
Conn., grandson of fighting Parson Allen, opened the exer- 
cises with an appropriate prayer, when Gov. Fairbanks deliv- 
ered the following brief and cordial address of welcome : 

Mr. President, and Ladies and Gentlemen : —It is well, and we are 
glad, that this memorable occasion should be honored by the presence 
of citizens and the chief executive officers of so many of our States, 
and especially by the President of the United States and his Cabinet. 
The heroic deeds of 100 years ago were not done to achieve the inde- 
pendence or liberty of any one colony or State, but to achieve the lib- 
erties of America. Fellow-citizens of this great republic, and patriot 
soldiers, lovers of human rights and liberty, in the name of the State 
of Vermont, I bid you a most hearty and cordial welcome to these 
commemorative services and hallowed associations. Well will it be if 
from them we catch and carry away in some measure the same patri- 
otic devotion to all freedom which inspired those brilliant heroes on 
yonder battlefield 100 years ago. 

PRESIDENT S. C. BARTLETT, OF DARTMOUTH COLLEGE, 

was then introduced as orator of the day. His address was 
spirited, interesting, and in passages eloquent. It was his- 
torically valuable, and we would be glad to give the address 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 53 

in full, but as this, with Mr. Roberts' oration will be pub- 
lished in official form by the Battle Monument Association, 
the writer does not deem it essential to a comprehensive his- 
tory of Centennial week to reproduce the same in this work. 
But the closing portion of the oration so appropriately re- 
ferred to the honored Chief Magistrate present, Rutherford 
B. Hayes, President of the whole country, and voiced the 
sentiments of the assembled thousands so admirably, that we 
give it herewith. Prof. Bartlett said : 

We celebrate to-day the valor that achieved our liberties wit bout 
a thought of bitterness towards those from whom we inherited and 
from whom we wrested them— very Britons from very Britons. And 
let us rejoice that thes j centennial commemorations have come in 
to throw a veil over the later and bloo tier wound?, that Concord 
and Bunker Hill and Bennington are superimposed upon Antietam 
and Gettysburg and Wilderness. It is wUl that bygones should at 
length be bygones. I am one of those who thought that, for their 
slau liter of a million lives and their assaults upon the nation's 
life, a dozen chief criminals should have been hung between the 
heavens and the earth, but it was not so done. Another po'icy 
prevailed. This mighty nation of nations of the earth could par- 
don and yet live. The cup was full of bitterness, but we drank it 
down, and now we may throw away the dregs, for southern sol- 
diers have strewn their flowers on the graves of their northern 
conquerors, and the southern governor of South Carolina has 
pledged protection to the liberated slaves. As in 1777 the tide of bat- 
tle turned, so In '877 at length has turned the tide of pe ice. This 
year, for the first time in our national history, the work of our 
earlier and later wars is accomplished. We dwell at last in a real 
and homogeneous Union of free commonweal hs. It is one har- 
monious republic, where no sovereign "-tate is joined to its fellows 
by federal bayonets, and no fugitive for liberty is remanded by 
federal courts to his chains; bat Americaa citizens, free every- 
where, free to g wern themselves, we look hopefully down the 
broad vista of peace and prosperity. What tongue dare foreshad- 
ow the tale which, if God will, shall be told here one hundred 
years hence ? 

Ml honor to the brave and honest chief magistrate, who, after a 
decade of fruitless experiments and" smoldering strife, had the 
good manhood to break away from all narrow and partisan re- 
straints, cast himself upon the souad sense and Chris r ian senti- 
ment of the American people, andle<d off the new order of cen- 
turies ; and let the East and the West and the North and the 
South say, Amen and amen. 



54 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

WILLIAM CULLEN BRYANT'S POEM. 

On this fair valley's verdant breast 
The calm sweet rays of summer's rest, 
And dove-like peace benignly broods 
On its smooth lawns and solemn woods. 

A century since, in flame and smoke, 

The storm of battle o'er it broke, 

And, ere the Invader turned and fled, 

These pleasant fields were strovvn with deid. 

Stark, quick to act and bold to dare, 
And Warner's mountain band were there, 
And Allen, who had flung the pen 
Aside to lead the Berkshire men. 

With fiery onset, blow on blow, 
They rushed upon the embattled foe, 
And swept his squadrons from the vale 
Like leaves before the autumn gale. 

Oh, never may the purple stain 
Of combat blot these fields again, 
Nor this fair valley ever cease 
To wear the placid smile of peace. 

Yet here beside that battlefield, 
We plight the vow that ere we yield 
The rights for which our fathers bled, 
Our blood shall steep the ground we tread. 

And men shall hold the memory dear 
Of those who fought for freedom here, 
And guard the heritage they won 
While these green hillsides greet the sun. 

This fine production of the venerable poet was read by 

Professor Churchill, of Andover, in a very acceptable manner. 

President Hayes was loudly called for, and spoke as follows; 

PRESIDENT HAYES' REMARKS. 

Ladies and fellow-citizens: I need not say to you that I 
am grateful for this greeting. I am greatly obliged to those 
who had charge of this celebration for their courtesy in giving 
me opportunity to enjoy with them the ceremonies of this day. 



a history of Vermont's centennial. 55 

I am quite sure none of us forget the occurrence of so notable 
an event as the battle of Bennington, so great an event toward 
the Nation's independence. I am sure we feel it has been 
fitly celebrated to-day. Only think of the procession that we 
beheld an hour or two ago — citizen soldiers so disciplined, — ■ 
soldiers from Vermont, from Connecticut, from Massachusetts, 
and New Hampshire, were here. But more touching than 
all in the procession were the Veterans of the union army, 
survivors of the 1,200 battles that saved the nation and made 
liberty throughout the world forever possible. (Applause) and 
what eye was not dimmed as we saw proudly marching with 
his comrades that maimed soldier walking with his crutch. 
But, my dear friends, I must not detain you. I recognize that 
among the pages of speech to which we have listened, packed 
full as each page was with interesting matter touching on 
great events of one hundred years ago, that no one page in it 
was more valuable than this, and one hundred years ago it 
was meritorious to be a minute man to fight in the cause of 
independence. Is there not some merit in my becoming 
a minute man? (Applause). 

At the close of the President's speech, Secretary Evarts was 
called for and said: 

"It is fair to say that I should warn you that though I am 
very slow to begin a speech I am much slower to end it, and I 
know your only safety is in my retiring before I commence. 

Postmaster-General Key was next called and said: 
"This call is a grateful one to me but I do not accept it as 
a personal compliment, but as an indication of fraternal feel- 
ing on the part of our Northern friends, to their erring South- 
ern brethren. (Applause.) 

Attorney-General Devens also spoke briefly. 

Secretary McCrary was called for, but had left the tent. 
E. W. Stoughton of New York, was then called for, but said 
he was not a member of the cabinet. Gen. Banks was called 
for, and Mrs. Hayes, but the President stated that it was long 
past the- time for the banquet and they did not respond. 



56 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

The exercises in the orators' tent closed by singing a 
patriotic hymn composed by Mrs. Marie Mason. President 
Phelps then invited the distinguished guests and others desir- 
ous of being present to assemble in the banquet tent. 

THE BANQUET AND SPEECHES. 

The banquet was a superb affair. Plates were laid under 
a series of tents in the form of a Greek cross for 3500 persons; 
The tables were loaded with substantial food, fruits and other 
delicacies, and ornamented with bouquets of brilliant flowers. 
The master of ceremonies and the most distinguished guests 
were seated near the centre of the banquet pavilion, near 
which were placed others who were invited and the represent- 
atives of the press. The hall was decorated with flags and 
bunting, and above the Presidential party was spread a huge 
American ensign. The party entered at 3.25 and immediately 
took seats, the President and friends being placed together. 
Mrs. Hayes was attended by Gov. Van Zandt of Rhode 
Island, and Mrs. Governor Fairbanks was escorted by the 
President. The supply was most abundant and the variety 
satisfactory. The tables were waited upon by young ladies 
whose badge of office was a tasty ribbon on which was 
inscribed "Mollie Stark." 

President Phelps then said: — 

vVe are celebrating the anniversary of a great victory over the 
troops of Great Britain, but we can rejoice in the fact that for 
more than sixty-five years peace has reigned between us and the 
mother country. T ong may it continue. England is no foreign 
land. It is the birthplace of our ances ors. It is the soil on which 
grew up together our language, our law, our prMples of civil lib- 
erty. I am happy to_ state that courteous and gratitying corres- 
pondence has taken place in reference to this celebration, between 
Gov. Fairbanks and that excellent nobleman, Lord THuTerin, Gov- 
ernor General of Canada, who was iavited to be present on this 
occasion. He writes to say that if it were not that his duties 
called him West, he would have been happy to have responded 
appropriately in his official capacity. 

Mr. Phelps then read a letter from Lord Dufferin, excusing 
himself from attendance. Mr. Phelps continued : 

We should fall short of the true spirit of this day if we rorgotto 
mention with all honors that illustrious lady, who through so many 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 57 

years of blameless life has been more than Queen of Great Brit- 
ain ; because she has been Queen in all the virtues, and Queen in 
the hearts <t all her people. I therefore propose the health of Her 
Most Gracious Majesty, Victoria. Queen of Great Britain. God 
bless her ! 

The band then played the English national anthem. Mr. 
Phelps then called upon the Hon. William M. Evarts, refer- 
ring to him as a gentleman whom the profession of the law, 
in which he had been so long foremost, had only lent, not 
given to the government, and expressed the hope that when 
he returned again to the circle of his professional brethren,, 
he would feel as he did when he returned to Vermont, that 
" where ever we wander there's no place like home." 

Mr. Evarts said : 

I believe, Mr. President, that had Queen Victoria been on the 
throne, instead of George the Third, or if we had postponed our 
rebellion until Queen Victoria reigned, it would not have been 
necessary, and if there had been any rebellion at all, it would have 
be^n on the part of England. The American Union is proof 
against all social, foreign and civil strife. Let me also add that, if 
neither political nor mirPary power can burst this Union, neither 
can society. It is the people that is absolutely free now, and abso- 
lutely equal now. It is the people that knows its rights and that 
will protect them from all invasion of the hostile foe and jealousy 
of hatred, and the wrath of this people, with its thunderbolts, 
shall strike in the name of the whole people. 

Mr. Evarts closed h-s speech by referring to the fact that had 
been brought to the notice of the people by a distinguished 
writer (Artemus Ward,) who had declared h'mself willing to sacri- 
fice on the al ar of his country all his wife's relations, but John 
Stark went farther than that, and declared himself willing to sac- 
rifice his wife's husband. (Laughter.) 

Gov. Prescott, of New Hampshire, spoke at length, allud- 
ing to the part his State had in the revolution, the war of 1S12 
and the rebellion, and closed by saying : " New Hampshire 
is represented here to-day by our soldiers and citizens, who 
have come hither to join with you in this peaceful demonstra- 
tion. New Hampshire will, in the future as in the past, be 
ready with you to defend the cause of liberty. We come with 
full numbers and warm hearts to this centennial occasion, in 
response to your courteous invitation." 



58 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

Hon. E. W. Stoughton, of New York said, if the men who 
fought Bennington battle could have looked forward to this 
day, and have seen themselves enthroned in the affections of 
forty millions of people, they would have felt that all the sac- 
rifices,' all the slain, all that went to secure a victory that was 
dear to them upon that field, was well repaid by this day. 

Gov. Fairbanks, in a few words, extended a cordial welcome 
to all the guests, in the name of the people of Vermont. 

Senator Edmunds said, to be the founder of a State is per- 
haps the greatest glory that can fall to a man. There may be 
somewhere great heroes, there may be somewhere great priests 
and apostles, but the greatest homage is due to those who 
have founded free and independent States. 

Postmaster General Key said he felt very grateful for the 
generous reception he had received. The same spirit of 
patriotism which one hundred years ago inspired alike the 
men of the North and of the South, now extends alike to all 
sections of our country, and I hope that when my friend, Sen- 
ator Edmunds, and you, Mr. President, meet at the next great 
centennial, that we shall find all over this broad country the 
•same spirit of amity that now exists. 

Attorney General Devens spoke in a historical vein. In 
closing he said, that, aside from the lesson of patriotism, there 
is another lesson to be drawn, and that is that in a free gov- 
ernment those who undertake to do anything have to rely 
mostly on themselves. Every country which has a ruling class 
•does its whole duty, and if in this country we assume the 
people to be the ruling class, and assert and maintain every- 
where our rights, we must attend to that duty. 

Mr, Phelps then said that, in the absence of the Treasurer 
of the United States, who was probably, like the king in the 
nursery song, "busy counting out his money," and getting 
ready for specie payment, he would call upon one who was fit 
to be treasurer, Senator Justin S. Morrill, and the latter re- 
sponded in a brief speech, saying: — 

I have always pitied anybody who was so unfortunate as not to 
toe born in Vermont, and especially not naming a snare in Benning- 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 59 

ton "battle. I trust that we shall all rally to every call as to the 
sound of the trumpet which calls us to commemorate these virtues 
of the people of our States. 

Speeches were afterward made by Thomas Allen, of St. 
Louis, Lieut. -Gov. Knight, of Massachusetts, who expressed 
his regret at the absence of Gov. Rice, and spoke a good word 
on behalf of his State, and President Bartlett, of Dartmouth 
College. The exercises of the banquet were closed by the 
rendering of a volunteer poem, entitled, "Parson Allen's 
Ride," by Wallace Bruce, of Poughkeepsie. 

Before the after dinner talk was concluded, the President 
and party were obliged to leave for Rutland. He was escorted 
to the train by the Putnam Phalanx, and Doring's Band of 
Troy. Fully 5000 people were at the depot to witness the 
departure, and in response to calls for a speech, the President 
briefly returned his thanks for the hearty reception given him. 
Amid cheers from the crowd, and music by the band, the 
presidential train left for Rutland. 

Among the letters read were notes of regret from Lord Duf- 
ferin, Gen. Sheridan, John G. Whittier ; Governors Hubbard 
of Texas, Miller of Arkansas, Colquitt of Georgia, Porter of 
Tennessee, Matthews of West Virginia, McCrary of Kentucky, 
Stone of Mississippi, Williams of Indiana, and Vance of 
North Carolina ; Ralph Waldo Emerson, Rev. E. H. Chapin, 
Stanley Matthews, Bishop DeGoesbriand, Gen. Garfield of 
Ohio, George William Curtis, Gen. Joseph E. Johnston of 
Virginia, and some twenty-five others, including Miss Sallie 
Eabson of Boston, a grand-daughter of Gen. Stark. 

It was past six o'clock when the banquet exercises con- 
cluded. The admirable manner in which President Phelps 
presided at the exercises in the orators' tent, and as master of 
ceremonies at the grand banquet, received a very compliment- 
ary recognition from President Hayes, who said that Mr. 
Phelps excelled* in dignity, grace, culture and admirable wit 
any presiding officer he had ever met. President Hayes only 
spoke the sentiments of every Vermonter, and of the thou- 
sands from every State, who saw and listened to this able and 
graceful gentleman during the Centennial doings. 



60 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

THE EVENING OF THE BATTLE DAY, 

After the Banquet was over, the Boston Cadet Corps, Col. 
Thomas F. Edmands, commanding — held a dress parade on 
the review grounds. This splendid organization presented a 
fine appearance in white coats and blue pants, and their 
excellent drilling and precision of movement was admired by- 
thousands who witnessed the parade. At an early hour, as 
soon as the dusk of night favored, Camps Ethan Allen and 
Stark were illuminated by fires and torchlights, interspersed 
with thousands of Chinese lanterns, calcium lights, transpar- 
encies, etc., etc. Especially noticeable among the many 
organization displays, the camps of the Veterans, Fuller's 
Battery, the Estey, Park, and Ransom Guard, were made 
attractive and brilliant in the extreme. Hooker's headquarters 
were the object of universal admiration. In addition the 550 
Chinese lanterns, pyramids of light, rockets, and the bril- 
liant and choice display of transparencies, of which the 
following is a partial list, were the especially admired features 
of the camp illuminations. Directly in front of the officer's 
tents and parallel with the color lines, the triangular trans- 
parencies stretching to the farthest camp location, were the 
likenessess of Washington, Lincoln, Grant, Hayes, Stark, 
Ethan Allen, Evarts, Devens, Custar, Sedjwick, Sheridan, 
Sherman, Generals Baldy Smith, and Brooks. 

The evening was a very brilliant one in Bennington village; 
nearly every house was illuminated with Chinese lanterns, 
transparencies and various other patriotic devices. The 
residences were all thrown open, displaying homes of taste 
and elegance which were made doubly attractive by the fair 
daughters in holiday dress, that by their presence added 
beauty to the scene. As the torchlight procession of the 
brave boys in blue moved through the streets, nearly one 
thousand strong, with bands of music playing, with significant 
mottoes emblazoned on the standards they carried, they were 
received with cheers, and a display of fireworks "all along the 
line." 



CHAPTER VIII. 

After the Battle Day. — Close of the National Guard's Muster. 
— The Central Vermont R. R. Centennial Management. — 
The "Press" at Bennington. — In Conclusion, 

,,giH E midnight hour that was proclaimed by the church 
y^j| tower clock, and which told that the battle Anniver- 
^S;^ sary was now of the historical past, did not put a 
quietus on the patriotic citizen or soldier. Illuminations and 
fireworks greeted the early dawn of Friday, as if protesting 
against the innovation of another day on a great Anniversary 
occasion which had been so proud an one for Vermont; so 
replete with National historic associations, and so fittingly and 
successfully commemorated during the past twenty-four hours. 
During the night and early morning, the Veterans broke camp, 
Colonel Hooker and his fine Battalion of Windham County 
boys, being among the first to take up the line of march for 
"the seat of peace" at Brattleboro. 

At Camp Stark the usual routine of duties was observed up 
to eleven o'clock, when Fuller's Light Battery was reviewed 
by the Governor and staff. The line was formed fronting 
North, and at the word of command the men broke into 
column of platoons and marched in review by the Governor 
and staff; officers and men presented a very fine appearance 
and the Governor expressed the liveliest satisfaction with the 
Battery, both at the review and at the subsequent inspection 
of quarters. After the review the command went through 
various military evolutions 1 closing with an exhibition of 
very rapid firing by the battery. The battery left for home 
at noon. At 2 p. M. took place the annual review and inspec- 
tion of the ist Regiment, National Guards of Vermont, 

61 



62 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

Col. Peck commanding, by Governor Fairbanks and staff. 
Col. Peck and his command went through the military move- 
ments incident to the ceremony of inspection and review wi th 
great accuracy and skill, and was highly complimented by the 
Governor on the increasing excellence the regiment was 
attaining year after year under his management and control. 
At the conclusion of the review the regiment held their daily 
dress parade before the Governor. It has never been our 
fortune to witness a finer dress-parade than their final one of 
Friday evening. Nearly every company was loudly applauded 
in going through the manual, by a great concourse of people. 
The regiment was paid by Quartermaster General L. G. 
Kingsley of Rutland, receiving $2.00 each per day for the 
entire eight days service. Companies "F," "I" and "G" 
broke camp at an early hour Saturday so as to hit the morning 
train to their homes; the rest of the regiment left on a special 
train at 10 A. M. 

THE CENTRAL VERMONT RAILROAD MANAGEMENT, AND THEIR 
CENTENNIAL ARRANGEMENTS. 

The history of Vermont's Centennial would be very incom- 
plete without the recognition and worthy mention of the Cen- 
tral Vermont Railroad Management, which contributed more 
to make the week's celebration at Bennington the very suc- 
cessful one it was, than all else combined. This Railroad 
Company, employing as it does 3000 men, and having 600 
miles of rail extending throughout this and neighboring 
States ; with a splendid passenger equipment of 125 cars, and 
the same number of fine engines ; with commodious depots, 
and courteous officials and faithful servants, all having in view 
the safety and comfort of the traveling public, has justly 
earned for itself the reputation of being a first-class road. 
Early in the season the management commenced their prepar- 
ations for Centennial Week. The rolling stock of the road 
was put in the best condition, additional sidings were laid at 
Bennington, some 150 extra passenger cars were secured from 
the various roads in New England; tickets were placed at less 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 63 

than half fare rates to Bennington and return, and every pro- 
vision for the transportation and accommodation of a multitude 
was made by the Company. An account of the additional 
facilities required for this special occasion is of much interest 
in this connection. A special time table, with a schedule of 
64 trains, was issued for the Harlem Extension Division, for 
the four days from the 14th to the 17th of August. Special 
details of men were made up for this extra work. From Mr. 
Foss' department, 40 engineers and firemen and 20 repair men 
were required. From Mr. F. W. Baldwin's freight depart- 
ment, 24 men were furnished, with 2S others from Mr. Rollo's 
passenger department, who served as conductors and brake- 
men on extra centennial trains during these four days. Gen. 
Supt. Hobart ; Supt. of R. S. & M., Mr Foss ; Gen. Passenger 
Agent, S. W. Cummings, Esq. ; Supt. of Telegraph, Mr. 
McGiff ; Gen. Baggage Agent, D. McKenzie, who acted as 
train despatcher, each gave their personal and undivided 
attention to the duties of their respective positions at Ben- 
nington. The movement and detention of the numerous 
trains was directed day and night personally by Messrs. 
Hobart and Foss at the Bennington station. On their return 
from the railroad campaign at Bennington, they issued the 
following circular, recognizing in a very fitting manner the 
arduous and faithful services rendered by the officers and men 
under their command : 

Central Vermont Railroad, ) 

General Supekinten en's « 'Ffice, r 

fet. Albans, Vt., August 20, 1877. > 

We take this method of expressing our gratitude to the employes 
who were present and aided in the preparation and movement of 
trains on th3 occasion of the Centennial Celebration at Benning- 
ton, Vt., August 14th, 15th, 16th and 17th. Such energy and skill, 
with strict adherence to their positions almost const ntly for four 
days and nights, cool and steady— clear headed, and a total absence 
of anything like profanity or ungentlemanly conduct, it has never 
before been our lot to observe. Men from all the Divisions are 
equally entitled to credit. Especial mention, however, should be 
made of Mr. McGiff, Train Despatcher, and Mr. McKenzie, Train 
Master, whose efforts seemed unbounded. In this we are not un- 
mindful of the efforts of the men who were left to attend to the 



64 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

regular business of the road, at that time largely increased, and 
made more difficult by the absence of those who were engaged in 
the centennial business. To one and all we tender our sincere and 
hearty thanks. 

J. W. HOB ART, Genl Supt, 
J. M. FOSS, Supt. R. S. & M 

The very successful operation of the whole line, and espec- 
ially of the one hundred and twelve miles of the Harlem 
Extension Division, on a single line of track, and the speedy 
and comfortable transportation to and from Bennington of 
50,000 passengers during the week, is a great triumph in 
railroading. That this should have been effected with no 
serious inconvenience, and without the slightest accident to 
person or property, is the best commentary the writer can give 
on the railroad management at the Centennial. The public 
will fully endorse the following complimentary letter of Pres- 
ident Smith, addressed to Supt. Hobart. It explains itself 
without further comment from the writer : 



Central Vermont Railroad, 

President's Office. 
St. Albans, Vt., Aug. 25th 



. f 

:, 1ST7. i 



John W. Hobart, Esq., General superintendent, etc. : 

My Dear Sir:— The recognition of true merit, and the bestowal of 
just praise are always pleasing duties to perform, and when to 
these there is superadded a sincere personal regard, the pleasure 
of such recognition is doubly enhanced 

I should be untrue to myself and to the company which T rep- 
resent if I failed to acknowledge in some formal manner the just 
consideration to which you, and others associated with 3 r ou, are 
entitled for the great ability, the watchful care and wonderful 
precision which characterized all the arrangements for the recent 
Centennial celebration at Bennington, both in the preparation and 
execution. 

That such a vast concourse of people as was there assembled 
could be moved on a single trnck without accident and without in- 
convenience or expressed dissatsf action seems almost incredible, 
and speaks highly for the executive ability and talent of those in 
charge. The occasion was one of great anxiety to myself, but the 
knowledge that able and true men were in charge serve d greatly 
to relieve my apprehensions, and gave assurance of safety and 
success. I desire, Therefore, to express to you and through you to 
Mr. Foss, Superintendent of Mutive Power, and to all the other 




^-^uk^/\ 



" There are the Bed Coats and they are ours, 
or this night 31ollie Stark sleeps a widow " 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 65 

lieads of departments and the employes of the road who were en- 
gaged on that occasion, my high appreciation of the faithful ser- 
vice rendered, and to commend you ail for it. 

It is with a feeling" of pride I express the conviction that no rail- 
road corporation can cla m for its emplo es a higher degree of 
intelligence, a more watchful care, a more thorough devotion to 
duty and a more thoughtful regard for rhe interest of the Com- 
pany than the Central Vermont, and I am happy to say that the^ 
enjoy to the fullest extent the respect and confidence of the 
managers. 

With renewed assurances of my personal regard and friendship 
toward yourself and tho e associated with you and under your 
charge, and with kindest wishes for your and their future welfare 
and prosperity, 

I am, very sincerely yours, 

J. GREGORY SMITH, President. 



THE PRESS AT BENNINGTON. 

Among the representatives of the press at Bennington dur- 
ing the week of the 16th of August, and to whom the public 
are under especial obligation for full and excellent reports of 
the celebration, may be mentioned : Messrs. E. V. Smalley, 
of the N. Y. Tribune ; Thomas McGuire, N. Y. Herald ; A. 
G. Hills and E. Morton Smith, Boston Journal ; H. W. Love, 
Boston Globe ; B. P. Palmer, Boston Herald ; Mills, N. Y. 
Times ; Tewksbury, Chicago Inter-Ocean ; Hawley, Hart- 
ford Courant ; Clark and Williams, Rutland Globe ; Tuttle, 
Pettengill and Hibbard, Rutland Herald ; Benedict, Free 
Press and Times ; Butler, Windsor Journal ; Kingsley, 
Burlington Clipper ; Greene, Woodstock Standard ; Poland, 
Montpelier Watchman ; Stone, St. Johnsbury Caledonian ; 
Mott, Brandon Union ; Swain, Bellows Falls Times ; Mer- 
chant, Burlington Democrat ; French and Stedman, Brattle- 
boro Phoenix ; Chandler, Vermont Record and Farmer ; Huse, 
Montpelier Freeman ; Sullivan, Montpelier Argus ; Hackett, 
Ludlow Gazette ; Chase, Lyndon Union, and others. The 
members of the local press did all in their power to entertain 
and make pleasant the stay of their brethren of the profession. 
Major A. P. Childs, of the "Vermont Centennial," made his 
office press headquarters for the occasion, much to the satis- 



66 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

faction of the fifty or more representatives of journalism that 
were at Bennington. 

Among the commendable examples of journalistic enter- 
prise incident to the Centennial, that of Childs Bros, is de- 
serving especial mention. They had associated with them 
editorially, Messrs. Clark and Williams of the Rutland Globe; 
S. B. Griffin of the Springfield Republican; and S. B. Par- 
menter of the Troy Press, in the publication of " The Ver- 
mont Centennial," a bright and newsy daily, from the 10th to 
the 20th of August, with twenty-five interesting issues before 
and after those respective dates, in tri-weekly form. The 
Bennington Banner proprietors, C. A. Pierce and Co., assisted 
by those able knights of the quill, Messrs. Geo. H. and 
Lucius Bigelow, issued during the ten days of the Centennial 
season, from the ioth to the 20th of August, a large and 
readable Daily Banner. It was a very creditable publication 
and widely circulated, as it deserved to be. 

The very graphic and complete reports that appeared in? 
the Springfield Republican were highly creditable to Mr. S. 
B. Griffin, one of the associate editors of that journal, and 
received a popular recognition in the thousands of copies 
sold daily in the streets of Bennington. The proprietors ran 
a special newspaper train from Springfield each morning,, 
which brought their morning edition with a full report of the 
previous day's celebration into Bennington about the break- 
fast hour. 

THE VERMONT EDITORS' AND PUBLISHERS' ASSOCIATION 

held its annual meeting at the Graded School Hall, Tues- 
day evening of Centennial week. An interesting address was 
delivered by Hon. E. P. Walton, and a humorous poem was 
read by Rev. O. G. Wheeler. The following list of officers 
was elected for the ensuing year : President, Hon. E. P. 
Walton; First Vice-President, A. N. Swain; Second, L. O. 
Greene; Third, Henry Clark; Recording Secretary, Rev. S. 
B. Pettingill; Corresponding Secretary, H. A. Huse; Treas- 
urer, C. M. Stone; Executive Committee, G. G. Benedict, 
Joseph Poland, and H. M. Mott. 



PART SECOND. 



Review of the Military Organizations at the Second Battle of 
Bennington. — A History of the Citizen Soldiery of Vermont, 
A T ew Hampshire, Alassachusetts, Connecticut and New York, 
at Bennington, on Vermont's Centennial Week. 

THE NATIONAL GUARD OF VERMONT. 

ST was a matter of pride to every Vermonter worthy of 
the name, that our State possessed a body of citizen 
Vi$J^ soldiery so well appointed and efficient as our First 
Regiment showed itself to be at Bennington. No organization 
contributed more to the success of the centennial celebration. 
The fine order of its camp, the good behaviour of the men, 
and the appearance of the Regiment on parade, on guard and 
in drill, won very high compliments from many strangers, 
officers of the regular army, veterans of the late war, and 
officers in the militia of other States and of Canada, whose 
praise is worth something in military matters. While each 
man in the Regiment is entitled to his share of the praise thus 
accorded, it is undervaluing no one to say that the chief credit 
for the condition of the Regiment has been due to its com- 
mander, Col. T. S. Peck. He has infused a good share of 
his own interest in the formation of an efficient militia into 
the officers and men of his command ; and in attention to its 
interests and labor for its welfare he has been indefatigable. 
He has been ably seconded by his subordinate officers ; and 
with such veteran field and line officers as Lieut. Colonel 
Greenleaf, Major Carr, Captains Henry, Newton, Williams 
and others, with so large a sprinkling of veterans in the com- 



68 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

panies, and with such an amount of good material in the rank 
and file, no one can doubt that the Regiment would render as 
good an account of itself in action as it does on the parade 
ground. 

From the " flood wood" era of ante-rebellion times, the 
transition in the discipline, dress and equipment of our militia 
has been very marked. But up to 1872, when the State was 
encumbered by three regiments of "raw" militia, the im- 
provement was not so marked as that which has characterized 
the First Regiment since its organization, five years ago. The 
State did wisely in forming one regiment from the three. 
The personnel of the companies comprises our best citizens. 
Nearly all the officers of the Regiment served in the late war ; 
many with distinction, and all with credit and honor to them- 
selves. The following is the record of the veterans of the 
field and staff in the National Guard : 

Col. T. S. Peck, Burlington ; Capt. and A. Q, M. vols. ; Lieut. 9th 
Vermont Infantry; private 1st Vermont Cavalry. 

Lt. Col. W. L. Greenleaf, Winooski ; private, Serg., 2d and 1st Lt. 
Co. L, 1st Vermont Cavalry, prisoner of war. 

Major C. VV. Carr, Brandon ; lsc Lt., brevet Capt. Co. \, 4th Ver- 
mont, ant prisoner of war. 

Lt. Wm. Sm'th, Burlington ; Q. M. private Co. C, 12th Vermont. 

Assistant surgeon C. P. Thayer, Burlington; prlvaie 13th Ver- 
mont Vols. 

Assistant Surgeon L. M, Bingham, Burlington; private Co. H. 
2d Vermont. 

Chaplaia "Daniel C. Roberts, Brandon ; Private Co. E, 8ith Ohio. 

Ed. E. Greenleaf, G/iartermaster-Ser?ean~, Private, Sergea t- 
Major, Second- Lieutenant, First-Lieutenant, First Vermont Light 
Battery, and Adjutant Reserve Artillery, 1st Division, 19t,h Army 
Corps. 

J. s. Spaulding, Commissary Sergeant, Sergeant Company G, 2d 
Vermont. 

J. B. Morse, Hospital Steward, 11th Regiment United States In- 
fantry. 

Geo. C. Hastings, Drum Major, Private 142d New York. 

(The complete roster of the field and staff is given on page 
18, in the first part of this work.) 

Ten Companies of Light Infantry, with Fuller's Light Bat- 
tery of Artillery, comprise the First Regiment National Guard 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL, 69 

of Vermont. The history of each company will be fou nd in 
the order of the Captain's rank or his date of commission. 

COMPANY F, NEW ENGLAND GUARDS, NORTHFIELD. 

Carlos D. Williams, Captain ; E. H. Howes, First Lieuten- 
ant ; John L. Mosely, Second Lieutenant : fifty-two men. 
The New England Guards were first organized in 1858, with 
S. G. Patterson, Esq., as Captain, who was succeeded by 
Hon. George Nichols, the present efficient Secretary of State. 
In 1861 the Company entered the 1st Regiment of Vermont 
troops with Captain W. H. Boynton as commander. They 
afterwards served a second term of enlistment in the 12th, 
under Captain D. Thomas. They reorganized in 1868, and 
elected for Captain C. D. Williams, who ranks first in 
the order of his commission as Captain, In 1872 the Com- 
pany entered the 1st Regiment on the reorganization of the 
militia. 

They have the name of being one of the best drilled com- 
panies in the regiment ; Captain W r iliiams' reputation as a 
strict disciplinarian and an excellent drill master being an 
enviable one. The Guards were detailed at Bennington as 
special escort to President Hayes, and at his reception did 
duty under Captain Williams at the Walloomsac House. 
They provided their own rations at the muster, having a fine 
mess tent where substantial meals were served. In their 
ranks are the following veterans : 

C. D. Williams, First-Lieutenant Company P, 12th Vermont Vol- 
unteers. 
H. B. Brings, Private Company G, 6th Vermont Volunteers. 
W. B. Jones, Private C >mt>anv H, 4ta Vermont Volunteers. 
Bomer nenay, Private Company F. 12th Vermont Volunteers. 
V W. Smith. Private Company F, I2t 1 Vermont Volunteers. 
W. W. Stevens, Private Company H, 16th Vermont Volunteers. 
James Evans, Private Company E, 41st Ohio. 
E. H. Howes, Private Company F, 12th Vermont Volunteers. 

COMPANY D, RANSOM GUARD, ST. ALBANS. 

John W. Newton, Captain ; F. Stewart Stranahan, First 
Lieutenant ; Seymour H. Wood, Second Lieutenant ; seventy- 



70 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

two men. In June, 1856, there was organized in St. Albans, 
Vt., a company of Light Infantry, which was named the 
" Ransom Guard," in honor of Colonel R. T. Ransom, a dis- 
tinguished officer in the Mexican War, under General Scott. 
The muster roll, as made out by the Clerk of the Company, 
George G. Hunt, Esq., who subsequently was Captain of the 
Guard, showed sixty-five members, including the St. Albans 
Cornet Band of eleven pieces. The officers of the Company 
at that time were as follows : Thomas F. House, Captain ; 
George J. Stannard, First lieutenant ; A, O. Brainerd, Second 
Lieutenant ; George P. Conger, Third Lieutenant ; C. G. 
Chandler, First Sergeant ; C. H. Clark, Second ; E. J. Marsh, 
Third ; C. H. Reynolds, Fourth ; S. R. Day, Auditor ; Geo. 
G. Hunt, Clerk, and W. W. Post, Treasurer. Their uniform 
was a dark gray, trimmed with red. 

At the outbreak of the war, the Company promptly offered 
their services to the government, and were early at the front 
in the First Regiment, the company commander being Captain 
Chandler, under Colonel Phelps. Their ranks furnished a 
number of distinguished officers, among whom were Major 
General Stannard, Lieutenant Colonel Charles G. Chandler, 
Tenth Vermont ; Captain Bogue, Tenth ; Captain Perkins, 
Eighth ; Captain Louis McD. Smith, and Captain Alonzo 
Hurlburt, Fifth ; and Captain George Kittredge, of the 
Twelfth Regiment. At the close of the rebellion their num- 
bers were greatly reduced, and it was not until June, 1872, 
that the reorganization of the Ransom Guard was effected. 

They were the second Company to organize under the legis- 
lative militia act of that year, and the first to adopt the hand- 
some uniform of the New York Seventh Regiment, which 
to-day has become the dress of all the other companies of the 
National Guard. The Ransom Guard attended, by invitation, 
the Concord Centennial, on April 18th, 1875. They went 
down with full ranks, accompanied by the St. Albans Brigade 
Band, having two Pullman sleeping cars for their transportation 
to Concord, and occupancy while there. The Guard were 
highly complimented for their fine appearance and drilling at 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 7 1 

this celebration. In 1876, their company roll numbered 102 
men, forming a battalion of two companies, under Major 
Newton, — with Companies D and H, — F. Stewart Stranahan 
being Captain of the second Company. As the Ransom 
Guard Battalion, they made an excursion to Philadelphia dur- 
ing the National Centennial. Under Major Newton, Com- 
panies D and H, and the Ransom Guard Battalion Band, — 
formerly the St. Albans Brigade, — mustering seventy men, 
started from St. Albans, June 28th, 1876, for Philadelphia, to 
be absent ten days. They acted as escort on this occasion, 
with the Estey Guard of Brattleboro, to Governor Peck, who 
visited the Exposition at this time. They encamped on Fair- 
mount Park during their eight days' stay in Philadelphia. In 
the grand military parade on the Centennial Fourth of July, 
when 10,000 citizen soldiery were in line, the Ransom Guard 
received marked attention and praise for their discipline and 
marching in the procession. 

AT CAMP STARK, BENNINGTON. 

The admirable arrangement of Captain Newton's Company 
quarters attracted much attention. The capacious interior of 
their canvas homes, with boarded floors, cot mattresses, gun 
racks, camp stools, mirror and lamp holders, and shelving 
for books, and sundry articles for toilette use, was decidedly 
creditable and neat looking. At either end of the street was 
a beautiful made arch of frame work covered with canvas, 
bearing the legend "Co. D," in monogram, and underneath 
that, extending over the curved brow of the arch, the Compa- 
ny's name, " Ransom Guard," in letters of artistic design and 
beautiful colored effect, flanked on the left with the date of 
the Company's organization, " 1856," and on the right the 
Centennial date, "1877." The entire street of the Ransom 
Guard was covered by an awning running back to the cap- 
tain's quarters. 

The cuisine branch of the Guard's quarters was unrivalled 
by the down-town hotels of Bennington, in the menu daily 
provided at the mess tent, where Messrs. E. C. Gallar, Dulla- 
han, Ford, Freak and other first-class caterers were on duty. 



72 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

On the evening of Bennington's battle anniversary the Guard 
had a celebration of their own. The quarters were put in 
perfect order, and brilliantly illuminated, and presented a 
very attractive appearance. During the evening hundreds of 
visitors thronged the streets, who were entertained with choice 
selections by the Band and Glee Club, and delighted with the 
display of fireworks sent up at the company quarters. Some 
$150.00 worth of Roman candles, bengolas, rockets, colored 
lights, etc., made the scene one long to be remembered. 

A pleasant feature of the evening was the presentation by 
General James S. Peck, to the Company, of an elegant pyra- 
mid some four feet high, composed of red and white roses , 
lilies of the valley, geraniums, fuschias and rare exotics, 
which he said he had the pleasure to present on behalf of 
himself and the staff of Governor Fairbanks, as a mark of 
esteem, and for courtesies received from the Ransom Guard. 
This handsome floral tribute, as it stood in the centre of the 
brilliantly lighted quarters of the company, was the admira- 
tion of all. 

General W. F. Smith, better known as " Baldy, " and 
Colonel Tanner, commander of the G. A. R. of New York 
State, visited the Guard and made complimentary remarks to 
the company. 

The Boston Cadet Corps, escort for Lieut. Gov. Knight, 
of Massachusetts, paid the company's quarters a visit with 
their Drum Corps and Band, and after exchanging courtesies of 
the day — and evening — they serenaded the boys, and retired 
amid cheers. 

The Manchester War Veterans followed next, and with 
pleasant allusions Capt. Dodge presented on behalf of his 
New Hampshire Veterans, each member with a fine cabinet 
sized photograph of Gen. John Stark. During the evening the 
R. G. Glee Club sang, and the band played a number of fine 
selections. The whole affair was very creditable to the com- 
pany, who never do things by halves, and who make their 
organization not only a first-class one in a military point of 
view, but a means and source of much social enjoyment, and 
a caravansary of hospitality. 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 73. 

The Guards had the honor of the right of the line in the 
procession on Vermont's Centennial Day, and were detailed to 
escort the presidential party at the reception at the Walloom- 
sac House, Wednesday night. Among the numerous visitors 
£0 the Guard's quarters were Col. Edmands, of the Boston 
Cadet Corps, and Col. E. G. Stevens, Assistant-Inspector 
General of Massachusetts, members of a committee to pre- 
pare a report on militia camp equipments, for the Massachu- 
setts Legislature, who visited the camp of the Ransom Guards, 
and admitted freely that Capt. Newton's gun-racks and other- 
comforts and conveniences of the company quarters were a 
touch above anything of the kind they had seen elsewhere. 

The Guard always keep "open house" at musters. On this. 
Centennial occasion they had several hundred distinguished 
guests around their festive board. Among the number was 
the venerable father of Petroleum V. Nasby, Mr. A. R. 
Locke, now 84 years old. This old and patriotic gentleman 
is filled with historical data and wit, showing conclusively 
that he did not transmit all of his genial nature to Petroleum. 

Commissary Sergt. A. C. Stonegraves superintended the- 
catering, and as a proof of the way the boys live in camp, and 
as a fitting close to this sketch, the bill of fare for one day is. 
appended. 

SOUP. 

Rice, Peas, Tomato, Vegetable. 

MEATS. 

Roast Beef, Lamb, Pork, Corn Beef Tripe, Liver, Bacon. 

VEGETABLES. 

Tomatoes, Potatoes, Cabbage, Turnips, Cucumbers. Watermelon., 
Musk melon. 

MISCE^ LANEOUS. 

Wheat Bread, Brown Bread, cream and Butter, Toast, Eggs in va- 
rious forms, Tea, Coffee. 

All of the officers, and many of the men of Co. D., served 
in the war. The veterans are as follows: 

J. W. Newton, Captain of Company D, formerly Captain Company 
L, 1st Vermout Cavalry. 

F. Stewart Stranahan, First Lieutenant of Company D, formerly- 
First Lieutenant Company L, 1st Vermont Cavalry. 



74 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

Seymour H. Wood, Second Lieutenant of Company D, formerly 
Sergeant Company L, 1 st Vermont Cavalry. 

Wm. P. Olmstead, Sergeant of Company D, forme ly Corporal 
Company K, 13th Vermont Volunteers. 

D. K. Gilson, Sergpant of Company D, formerly Second Lieutenant 
Company I, loth Vermont Volunteers. 

Willard Farrington, Serg-ant of Company D, formerly First 
Lieutenanr Company L, 1st Vermont Cavalry. 

S. Story. Jr., Sergeant of Comp my D, formerly Private Company 
K, 1st Massachusetts Heavy Artillery. 

S. D. t opkins, Commissary Sergeant of Company D, formerly 
Sergeant Company I, 10th Vermont Volunteers. 

E. P. Phillips, Private of < 'ompany D, formerly Third Sergeant 
Company 1 16th New Hampshire Volunteers. 

John C. Stranahan, private of Company D, formerly Private 15th 
Infantry, on detached service, Adjutant General's Office, Washing- 
ton, D. C. 

Edmund P. Clark, Private of Company D, formerly Private 12th 
Vermont Volunteers. 

Geo. R. Hastings, Musician of Company D, formerly Private 142d 
New York Volunteers, afterwards enli-ted in the 32d Regiment 
TJ. S. A., and was promoted to Drum Major. 

John S. S^ory, Musician or Company D, formerly Private Com- 
pany K, 1st Mas achusetts Heavy Artillery. 

James Myers, Private Company D, formerly First Sergeant Vir- 
ginia Eegiment, C. S. A. 

COMPANY I, ESTEY GUARD, BRATTLEBORO. 

This fine organization dates from 1874. With Captain 
Julius J. Estey, First Lieutenant Fletcher K. Barrows, and 
Second Lieutenant Frederick W. Childs, for officers, it is 
fairly representative of Bratteboro's enterprising citizens ; 
and being honored with the name of Estey, so justly celebrated 
wherever civilization or musical culture extends, the Company 
represents the industry and prosperity which the great manu- 
facturer has given that beautiful town. The Estey Guard are 
no discredit to the name, but in their harmony of movement 
and excellence of action, seem to reflect the commendable 
characteristics of the Cottage Organ, winning as enviable a 
reputation in the military line as the instruments bearing the 
same name do in a musical sense. Captain Estey takes a 
great interest in his Company, and the rank of his commission 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 75 

gives to the Guard the honorable position of color company 
of the Regiment. They are finely provided for the occasion, 
having been the recipients a year or two ago, from the ladies 
of Brattleboro, of an elegant silk flag, richly fringed and staff 
handsomely mounted. Captain Estey was recently appointed 
on Governor Fairbanks' staff, with the rank of Colonel. The 
Company have an excellent Glee Club, and the Fuller Drum 
Corps, numbering fourteen, do good service for them, and in 
their neat uniform look very attractive. In July, 1876, the 
Company made an excursion to Philadelphia and the Centen- 
nial, going as escort — with the Ransom Guard — for Governor 
Peck. They encamped some ten days on Fairmount Park, 
and were assigned a prominent position in the grand military 
procession on the Fourth of July, when ten thousand troops 
paraded. Their fine appearance and the precision of their 
marching received marked approval by press and public. 

AT BENNINGTON. 

At the centennial muster in Bennington, the Estey Guard 
numbered some sixty men. Their camp looked the picture of 
neatness and comfort, with boarded floors, mattresses and nu- 
merous home-like comforts. Their capacious mess tent at 
each meal covered a finely spread table and a hospitable host. 
The officers of the Company take much interest in the affairs 
of the organization, as is seen in the superior dress, equip- 
ments, and camp comforts provided at their expense for the 
boys, who seem to return the favor by good discipline, cour- 
teous manners and fine drilling. 

On the arrival of the presidential party at Bennington, 
August 15th, when the whole military present turned out to 
meet them, the Estey Guard were made special escort on the 
march to the Center village, where President Hayes was to 
stop. On the evening of the battle anniversary, (the 16th,) 
the quarters of the Company were brilliantly illuminated, and 
attracted much attention. From the top of a fifty foot pole, 
standing in the center of the camp, were scores of Chinese 
lanterns suspended on wires running to the four corners of the 
company street, while various colored lights made the scene 



76 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

very handsome. On Friday night, the last in Camp Stark, 
the illuminations surpassed those of the 16th. They were 
very fine, and creditable to Captain Estey. Saturday morn- 
ing, at 8.30 o'clock, the Company took the train for home, 
arriving in Brattleboro early in the afternoon. The veteran 
members of the Guard are the following : 

First Sergeant C. H. Bond; Sergeant W. F. Smith; Privates, 
H. A. Reynolds, F, E. Root ; Commissary-Sergeant A. (Jakes. 

COMPANY A, " RUTLAND LIGHT GUARD," RUTLAND. 

Charles C. Kinsman, Captain ; E. M. Edgerton, First 
Lieutenant ; George Q. Day, Second Lieutenant ; fifty-one 
men. The old Company of this name was organized in 1855, 
with General H. H. Baxter as Captain. When he was pro- 
moted the captaincy was taken by General W. Y. Ripley, and 
the Company entered the old First Vermont S. V. in 1861, 
under his command. The present Company was named in 
June, 1873, and is composed of Rutland's best citizens. 

This Company ranks fourth in the rank of their Captain's 
commission. They stand well up in the Regiment for both 
gentlemanly bearing and excellent drill and discipline. They 
have a mess tent of their own, and the boys of the Light 
Guard find good rations in this hotel de Rutland of canvas. 
All of the commissioned officers are veterans, as will be seen 
by the war record of the Company below. 

Captain C. C. Kinsman. First Lieutenant 4th Regiment, vt. Vols. 
First Lieutenant E. M. Edgerton, princip 1 Musician 9tli Vt. Vols. 
Second Lieutenant George Q Day, Musician 6th Vc. Vols. 
• Private Burt Black more, Private 2d Regiment Light Artillery. 
Private Anthony Austin, Private Co. H, 14th Regiment Vt. Vols. 
Private Jesse Bishop, Private 5th Regiment Vt. Vols. 
Private Orlando Bishop, Private 1st Regiment Vt. Vols. 

COMPANY B, BARLOW GRAYS, ST. ALBANS. 

Captain, J. Newton Culver ; First Lieutenant, Matthew G. 
Gilder ; Second Lieutenant, Emerson W. Bordo. The Barlow 
Grays are deserving of honorable mention for their soldierly 
conduct, and of recognition for the precision and order which 
has characterized their field movements and company evolu- 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 77 

tions during the muster. Company B. was organized May 22, 
1872. Mason B. Carpenter, Esq., was chosen Captain, his 
commission ranking second in order of date. Matthew G. 
Gilder was elected First Lieutenant, and he now stands first 
among the officers of that rank in the Regiment. Frank L. 
Roberts was their Second Lieutenant. He was succeeded by 
Orderly Sergeant Emerson W. Bordo, whose commission as 
Second Lieutenant places him at the head of that list. Fred 
A. Lewis, Esq., was in 1874 elected company commander in 
place of Captain Carpenter, resigned, and on the 4th of Feb- 
ruary, 1875, Captain J. Newton Culver was commissioned to 
fill the vacancy caused by the removal West of Captain 
Lewis. The Barlow Grays were the first Company of the 
Regiment to procure a new uniform, and to provide at 
their own expense a dress different from the State regulation 
suit. The one adopted by them was similar to that of the old 
Ransom Guard of 1856. It is of cadet gray, with trimmings 
of red and gold lace, white cross belts and gilt shield, with 
monogram "B. G. ;" epaulets and plume of red and white, 
with a high-crowned dress cap, and a fatigue coat of blue. 
Their knapsacks and equipments are of new pattern and make. 
Their company room, in the Lake street armory, is fitted up 
and furnished in a style that is probably not surpassed in the 
State. It is finished in ash and black walnut, handsomely 
carved, with lockers, gun rack, settees, officers' desks, etc., of 
,fine workmanship. The walls are frescoed with taste and 
hung with oil paintings, and altogether it is an attractive 
place. The Company have their regular meeting on Thursday 
of each week. All of the six commissioned officers of the 
Company, and one-third of the men, wore the blue during the 
late war, several being officers. Their reputation for field 
movements has been excellent, and Captain Culver has reason 
to be gratified that his efforts in this direction have met with 
public recognition, and received the flattering commendation 
of the officers of the Regiment. Having worn their uniform 
for five years, it was desired by the members of the Company . 
to procure a new one, which they did, adopting gray and 



78 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

black with heavy gold trimmings, with a fatigue suit of the 
same material, which is of the best quality and fit. 

The Barlow Grays were honored at Bennington by being 
detailed on the battle day, to do duty at the President's 
reviewing stand, and also at the Banquet tent. The beautiful 
silk flag that floated from their quarters at Camp Stark was 
the prize won by the company at the muster of 1873, when in 
competition with Company A, of Burlington, the superior 
drill of the Grays bore off the palm. 

Their ranks contain sixteen veterans, the largest number 
of any company in the Regiment. All of the commissioned 
officers are veterans, as follows: 

Capt. J. N. Culver, Company H, 11th N. H., private. 

First Lieutenant, M. G. Gilder, enlisted Aug. 19th, 1861, as 
private, Company A, 5th Vermont, served four years, mustered 
out as second 1 ieutenant, same company. 

Second Lieutenant, B. W. Bordo, enlisted Nov. 24th, 1862, as 
private, Company F, »th Vermont, served four \ ears, was mustered 
out as a corporal. 

Sergeant J. C. Gowey, Enlisted 1st Aug. 1862, in Company F, 
106th N. Y., taken prisoner July, 1S64. 

Corporal Frank Osborn, 11th Vt. Battery, H. 

Corporal Joe Young, Company A, 1st U. S. Artillery. 

Corporal B. Wilkins, Battery I, 1st Vt. H. A. 

Private A. Fallert, 12th and 19th Ills., and 187th Ohio and 7th 
Regular. 

L. W. McKay Company K, 7th Vt. 

F. W. McGet trick, Company E, Second Regiment U. S. S. S, 
Wounded battle of spotts} lvania May 18, 1864. 

B. C. Richardson, 2d Regiment U. S. Sharp Shooters ; 17th Ver- 
mont, wounded and taken prisoner Sept. 30th, 1864. 

C. L. Spicer, 5th Vt., Company K. 

E. Varney, Company C, 9th Vt. Regiment Wounded at Chapin's 
Farm, Sept. 30, 1864. 

Frank L. Roberts, Company B, 15th N. Y. Wounded at Five 
Forks, April 1, 1865. 

L. A. Green, Drum Major, 8th Vt. 

L. S. Ingraham, Company C, 5th Vt. 

In the manual of arms they seem to excel, and in their 
conduct and appearance we do not think the reputation of 
either the National Guard of Vermont or of the town of St. 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 79 

Albans will suffer. We can say without any hesitation that 
their reception of friends, and their generous providing, make 
a visit to their quarters always pleasant. They had the honor 
of doing escort and guard duty at the President's reviewing 
stand, and at the banquet on the great day. They are named 
after Hon. Bradley Barlow, and he has no reason to bear any 
discredit from the boys of Company B. 

COMPANY C, SPRAGUE GUARDS, BRANDON. 

Ira M. Hatch, Captain; Edward H. Webster, First-Lieu- 
tenant; L. J. Cayhee, Second-Lieutenant. This company 
was organized as a part of the old Third Regiment, August 
17th, 1872, and first Captain was C. W. Carr, of Brandon, 
well known in connection with the old Fourth Vermont. 
This company was originally called the "Warner Guards," 
in memory of that sterling patriot, Colonel Seth Warner. 
Last year the Company voted to change their name to that of 
Sprague Guards, in honor of Hon. N. T. Sprague, Jr., whose 
name in connection with the Howe scale has become world 
wide. It was to the enterprise and generosity of this gentle- 
man that Vermont visitors to the Philadelphia Centennial 
were indebted for their comfortable and neat headquarters 
building. The Guards have procured a new uniform since 
the muster of 1876, corresponding with that of the N. Y. 7th, 
and presented at Bennington a fine appearance. They have 
these veterans among their number: 

Captain Ira M. Hatch, formerly Company H, 5th Vt. Infantry, 
orderly for Maj. Gen. L. A. Grant. 

First Lieutenant Edward H. Webster, formerly Co. A, Second N. 
Y. Volunteers and hospital steward. 

Fourth Sergeant, George Smith, formerly Company I, 11th Vt. 
heavy artillery ; private. 

Corporal, Henry Barrows, formerly battery D, 4th U. S. artillery; 
orderly sergeant. 

Second Sergeant, Andrew Ness, formerly Company D, 25th IT. S. 
infantry ; orderly sergeant. 

Musician, Fayette Morey, formerly Company A, 7th Vt. infantry; 
musician. 



So THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

Private Harry Session, formerly Company C, 10th Vt. ; color corp. 
Private Daniel Sessions, formerly Company G, 7th Vt. ; private. 
Private Fred Mclntyre, formerly Company B, Ttti Vt. ; private. 

COMPANY K, PARK GUARD, BENNINGTON, 
This Company was organized January 20th, 1876, with N. 
O. Wilcox, Captain ; J. A. N. Williams, First Lieutenant; 
and W. H. Bradford, Second Lieutenant. Soon after the 
organization the Company was presented, by T. W. Park, 
Esq., and a few other friends, with a complete dress and 
fatigue uniform, of the same make and style as the Seventh 
New York Regiment. The ladies of Bennington also pre- 
sented the Company with a beautiful stand of colors. There 
are fifteen veterans in tne Company, and they represent nearly 
every Regiment furnished by Vermont in the late war. The 
Company has attained a proficiency in drill and soldierly bear- 
ing seldom attained by a body of men in so short a time. 
The Guard were special escort to President Hayes, Thurs- 
day, August 1 6th. The flag presented by the ladies is of 
heavy silk, with gold fringe and letters of gold. The Guard 
have purchased bear-skin hats the present season, which add 
greatly to the appearance of the Company. 

The name was adopted in honor of T. W. Park, Esq.", 
who is well known throughout the State, and who has been 
very liberal to the Company, and is ever ready to respond to 
their needs. They have the following veterans in their ranks: 

Captain N. O. Wilcox, Musician Co. A, 4th vt. Vols. 

First Lieutenant J. a. N. Williams, Sergeant Co. A, 2d Vt. Vols. 

First Sergeant A. C. Sweet, corporal U. S. Regiment. 

Sergeant W. W. Kendall, Corporal Co. A, 4th Vt. Vols. 

Sergeant S. A. Holt, Sergeant I4tb. Mass. Vols . 

Sergeant A. M Downs, Corporal Co. I, 57th N. Y. Vols. 

Corporal Fred *odfrey, Sergeant Co. A, 4th Vt. Vols. 

Private Charles Burt, Private First Vermont Battery. 

Private Joe Clifford, Private Co. L lith Vt. Vols. 

Private Homer Lewis, S Tgeant Co. G, 69th N. Y. Vols. 

Private J. W. w illiams, Private 3d ^ T . J. Cavalry. 

Private S. F. Wellrnan, Sergeant Co. F, First Vermont Cavalry. 




THE BATTLE OF BENNINGTON, AUGUST 16, 1777. 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 8 1 

COMPANY E, GREEN MOUNTAIN BOYS, BURLINGTON. 

The "Green Mountain Boys" were originally organized one 
hundred years ago, Colonels Ethan Allen and Warner being 
their first commanders. Their valor and patriotism history 
records on her brightest pages. The "Green Mountain Boys" — 
of Vermont's Queen City — reorganized in June 1875, and are 
officered as follows: W. W. Henry, Captain; Eben Taplin, 
First Lieutenant; W. L. French, Second Lieutenant; fifty- 
one men. Under General Henry of the Old Tenth Vermont, 
and with the soldierly appearance and excellent discipline of 
the "Boys of 1877," the heroes of the Revolution suffer no 
discredit through their namesakes. Although the Company 
is one of the last organized, yet their drilling would be credit- 
able to much older companies. They carry a banner sym- 
bolizing the character of their organization. It is of pure 
white, having the State's motto and coat of arms, with the 
name of the Company inscribed thereon in green, and was a 
present from Second Lieutenant French. During their 
encampment in Bennington the Company was honored by the 
appointment of General Henry as Division Commander in the 
procession on both the 15th and 16th days. The General was 
Marshal of that part of the parade comprising the New 
Hampshire Military, executive and legislative bodies, and in 
his veteran dress and bearing, recalled the days when he was 
leading the sons of Vermont to battle. Their First Lieuten- 
ant, Eben Taplin, was detailed through the muster to serve 
as Provost Marshal, a position he was well adapted to fill. 
The command of the Company devolved on Second Lieuten- 
ant W. L. French during these days. His efficiency as a 
commanding officer, and his standing as a tactician was proven 
on numerous occasions before the public. The marching of 
the Green Mountain Boys, and especially their execution in 
the manual of arms, was very commendable. At the dress 
parade Sunday evening their fine drill received the applause 
of the multitude assembled. Lieutenant French took charge 
also of the cuisine department for the Company and catered for 
seventy-five persons in the large mess tent to the rear of the 

6 



82 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

Company's quarters. The duty of escorting the Presidential 
party from Bennington Center on the morning of the 16th, 
fell to the National Guard. The "Green Mountain Boys"' 
were placed in the rear of the distinguished party, and their 
wheeling was observed by the President with evident satis- 
faction. The Company extended their hospitality to the 
Burleigh Corps of Whitehall, during the 15th and 16th days,, 
numbering some fifty of that City's enterprising young men. 
They have the following veterans in their ranks: 

Captain W. W. Henry, 1st Lieut. 2d Vermont; Col. 10!h Vt. ; 
Brevet Brigadier General. 
First Lieutenant Eben Taplin, 2d Lieut. 3d Battery, Vt. Vols. 
Corporal H. Gilman, Sergeant 5rn Vt. 
Chas. Nichols, Private 5th Vt. 
Chas. Hughes, Corporal 12th; Private 17th, 
N. La wry, Private 1st Vt. 
Chas. Wight, Sergeant 12th Vt. 
Robert McC >llom. 

COMPANY G, BRADFORD GUARD, BRADFORD. 

Frank R. Chamberlain, Captain ; James A. Waterman, 
First Lieutenant ; Eugene Levitt, Second Lieutenant ; forty- 
eight men. This Company is composed of some of the best 
citizens of Bradford. Their organization is among the oldest 
in the State, dating from 1857. In 1861 they entered the 
First Vermont, and subsequently served a second term in the 
Twelfth Vermont Regiment. The veterans are : 

George W. Martin, First Sergeant, Private Company G, loth* 
Regiment, Vermont Volunteers. 

Charles C. Wright, Private Company D, 1st Vt. Vols., and 2d 
Sergt., Co. H, 12th Regt. Vt. Vols. 

Milton B. Staples, Private Co. G ; Private Co. E, 8th Vt. Vols. 

Edgar Rowell, Co. G, 1st Corporal Co. D, 12th vt. Vols. 

Harve\ D. Gansby 2d Sergt. Co. G ; Private 2d Berdan's IT. S. S. S.„ 
Co. E ; 4 h Sergt. 42d Wisconsin Vols., Co. D. 

A. P. Jacobs, Musician, Co. G ; Musician Co. K, 2d Vt. Vols. 

Ruf as B. Aldrich, Private Co. G ; Private Co. B, 6th Vt. Vols. 

COMPANY H, STEWART GUARD, MIDDLEBURY. 

John H. Sargent, Captain ; W. H. Cady, First Lieuten- 
ant ; E. L. Stewart, Second Lieutenant. This Company is 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 83 

named after ex-Governor Stewart, one of Vermont's honored 

citizens. The veterans are : 

Captain John H. Sargent, 2d Lieut. 14th Vt. Vols. 

First Lieutenant, Wm. H. Cady, Sergt. uth Vt. Vols. 

Corporal Albin J. English, Private, 5th Vt. Vols. 

Almon Enos, Private, Tth Vt. Vols. 

Frank H. Piper, Private, Tth Vt. Vols. 

Sergeant James J. Manney, Private, llth Vt, Vols. 

THE REGIMENTAL BAND. 

The original organization of the Band may be said to date 
from 1856, when the St. Albans Cornet Band was formed in 
connection with the Ransom Guard of that day. In 1864 a 
charter was granted by the Legislature to the " St. Albans 
Brigade Band," which included a number of the old musicians. 
From that time to June, 1876, this name was the synonym of 
first-class music. From the latter date the " Ransom Guard 
Band " has stood for the same thing, the Band having entered 
the company organization of the Guard. For three successive 
years they have been engaged for the fourth of July celebra- 
tion at Ogdensburgh, and for two years their services have 
enlivened the Vermont State Fair, and with satisfaction on all 
occasions. The Band accompanied the Guard to the Centen- 
nial at Concord in 1S75, an d a l so to Philadelphia on their ten 
days' excursion in July, 1876. They have been honored for 
three successive annual musters by their appointment as Reg- 
imental Band. Their musical services have been highly 
satisfactory to the Regiment, and their fine selections have 
contributed much to the entertainment and enjoyment of the 
thousands that congregate at the military camp during the 
musters of the National Guard. The Band consists of twenty- 
four pieces, under the efficient leadership of Henry W. Hatch, 
the drum major being George C. Hastings, an old "vet." 

At Bennington they played very acceptably on all occasions, 
and won the commendation of all who heard their musical 
notes. They presented a fine appearance in their new and 
handsome uniforms of navy blue broadcloth, trimmed with 
white, and white leather cross and waist belts with gold 



84 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

plated mountings, black beaver dress caps, and fatigue caps 
of jaunty English style, and black leather music pouches. 
On the cap, epaulets and pouch is the monogram in gold " R. 
G. B." At guard mount, at battalion drill, and at dress 
parade their services for the Regiment were daily required. 
In the evening they serenaded at the head of each company's 
street. In the processions on the 15th and 16th of August, 
they led the column, and showed themselves well worthy this 
position of honor. The night of the President's reception at 
the Walloomsac House, the Ransom Guard and Northfield 
Company escorted the presidential party thither, with the Band 
for music ; and during the evening their rendering of choice 
selections enlivened the occasion. And while it is unnecessary 
to say anything regarding their playing comparatively with 
other bands at Bennington, to those who were there, yet for 
those who were not present we will say that none, outside of 
those from Boston and Troy, gave such general satisfaction as 
the Regimental Band. 

THE FULLER LIGHT BATTERY. 

This fine battery of light artillery was organized in the 
summer of 1874, and consisted of fifty men and two guns. 
It held only one parade that year. In the spring of 1875 the 
number of guns was increased to four, and the membership to 
seventy-two. It remained up to this time an independent 
organization, the expense being borne by Col. Fuller. Previ- 
ous to the fall encampment it was attached to the First Reg- 
iment National Guard of Vermont. The Legislature of 1876 
passed a law raising a full battery of eighty men and four guns, 
and under it this command was re-organized. The uniform 
is of dark blue of the English style, both of coat and helmet, 
the same as has recently been adopted by the U. S. army. 

The roster of the Battery is as follows: 

Levi K. Fuller. Captain ; Edwin H. Putnam, Adjutant ; C. Adams 
Gray, Assistant Surgeon ; Charles R. Briggs, First Lieutenant ; 
John G. Bice, First Lieutenant ; Edwiu A. Puffer, Second Lieuten- 
ant; Patrick Conner, Second Lieutenant; Thomas Hannon, Quar- 
termaster Sergeant ; Jerome W. Knight, Commissary sergeant ; 
Albert T. Mcciure, First Sergeant ; Daniel P. Cobb, Artificer; C. 
Sager, Guidon ; Geo. M. Taylor, J. A. Maxham, Buglers. 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 85 

The Battery has been a very attractive feature of the mili- 
tary encampment, in past musters. At St. Albans in 1876, 
a sham fight occurred between the Infantry of the National 
-Guard and Captain Fuller's artillery. After a severe contest,. 
and a brave defense by the Battery, they were at last forced 
to retire before the superior attacking force of the enemy. 
Captain Fuller's men handled their guns like old soldiers, and 
as there are some thirty veterans in the Company, their 
"regular" action may be accounted for. The Battery this 
Centennial year, having voted to march across the mountain 
to the Bennington Muster, Captain Fuller on Thursday 
evening ordered ' his men into the armory at Brattleboro, for 
an early start Friday morning. The bugle call sounded 
shortly after midnight and at four o'clock the line of march 
was taken up. The first march without halt was twenty miles 
on a muddy road to Wilmington, doing the whole distance in 
the handsome time of eight hours. At Wilmington, the com- 
mand halted for two hours at the "Soldier's Rest," better 
known as the Vermont House. The march from Wilmington 
to the top of the mountain was enlivend by a short but smart 
shower, and Woodford City, a distance of fourteen miles, was 
made in five hours and a half. At Woodford, a halt was 
made for the night at the Crawford House. The march was 
resumed at five o'clock A. M. for Wilmington. Down the 
declivity to Wilmington the time was much quicker, and about 
twelve o'clock the Battery came into this pleasant village on 
the trot, the column being well closed up. A triumphal arch 
had been erected bearing the inscription, ''Welcome Veter- 
ans and F. B.," also other signs of welcome to the battery 
were hung from houses and stores. 

Along the road to Bennington the approach was signalled 
from house to house, and from hill-top to hill-top, by the 
waving of signal flags, blowing of horns and other pre-arranged 
methods. At the river, two miles from Bennington, a halt 
was made, buckets were gotten out, and a general cleaning 
and washing up was had. From this point on the march was 
an ovation. The Battery arrived in camp at eleven o'clock 



86 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

Saturday morning, August nth, when the men were dismissed 
to arrange their little homes under canvas, and to make things 
comfortable for their life in camp. The guard was immedi- 
ately posted, Lieut. Connors acting as officer of the day, when 
camp life commenced in earnest. The camp was on a com- 
mai.d ng and lovely spot, upon a gentle slope facing the east, 
one of nature's best, with shade to the east to shield against 
the morning's scorching sun, with a wall and shade to the 
southward, which formed a delightful enclosure and nearly 
secluded them from their regimental comrades. With their 
twenty-eight A and wall tents, and fifty fine looking horses, 
well sheltered by canvas, and 107 " artilleryists," — gentlemen 
as well as soldiers, — an encampment was formed of very at- 
tractive appearance. Capt. Fuller's hospitality and pleasant 
welcome to guests was made more delightful by the presence 
of Mrs. Fuller. It was also well seconded by Mr. E. W. 
Kellogg of St. Albans, who was an aid on the Captain's staff 
during the muster. The Battery contributed materially to the 
military display of the week. Saturday, Sunday and Monday 
the usual routine of duty was observed by the Battery, in 
common with the rest of the National Guard. Tuesday the 
veterans under Colonel Hooker were honored with salutes as 
they came into camp. Wednesday was the first gala day of 
the celebration. A national salute was fired at sunrise. At 
eight o'clock a salute was fired in honor of the New Hamp- 
shire troops, and at noon fourteen guns announced that the 
original thirteen States had one added to their number. At 
9.30 A. M. the Battery joined the procession, being attached 
to the third or left division, under Colonel G. W. Hooker, 
composed of veterans of the war. At two o'clock the Battery 
performed escort duty for the President, from the depot to 
Mrs. Tibbetts', beyond Bennington Center, and there fired a 
salute of twenty-one guns. Thursday the national salute of 
thirty-eight guns was fired at sunrise. At 9.30 A. M. the Bat- 
tery joined the procession, and formed the left of the fifth 
division, Colonel L. K. Fuller commanding, Lieut. Briggs 
returning in time to take command of the Battery. Friday 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. r 87 

morning a review and inspection in marching order was held 
by the Governor and Adjutant General J. S. Peck. After 
dinner, Friday, the pleasant camp was left behind, and the 
march over the mountain for home was taken up. Brattleboro 
was reached before sunset of Saturday, and the memorable 
campaign of eight days on the historic fields of Bennington 
terminated. 

The drill, evolutions and discipline of the Battery was the 
subject of much admiration at the Centennial. Gen. Baldy 
Smith complimented the Battery highly, saying it was the 
finest looking and best drilled battery in New England, and 
while being reviewed the President inquired particularly about 
the Battery, wanting to know how long it had been organized, 
how many men belonged to it, and who was the commanding 
officer. He agreed with everybody else in saying it made a 
very fine appearance. Among the members are twenty-seven 
veterans of the late war, including nine of the officers, as 
follows • 

E. H. Putnam, Adjutant, 16tli Vermont. C. A. Gray, Ass't Sur- 
geon 2d New York Cavalry ; 2d Lieut. C. II. Briggs, 1st Lieut 16th 
Vt.; Corporal. E. A. Puffer, 2d Lieut. 1st Vt. Cavalry. P. Connor, 
2d Lieut. 13th Massachusetts Battery, 2d U.S. Battery; Private. 

A. T. McClure, 1st Sergt. 4tli Mass. Beavy Artillery. T. Hannon, 
Q. M. 9th Vc ; 1st Sergt. L. Shield, Sergt 37th N. Y ; 42d Mass.; 
Sergt. B. M. Clay, Sergt. 3d Vr. Artillery; Sergt. D. W. Hager, 
Corp. 8th Vt.; Private. M. L. Corbett, 9th Vt.; Sergt. C. G. End- 
lich, Corp. 115th Prussian Cavalry; Private. N. C. Stone, Corp. 
52dMass.; Private. G. M. Taylor, Bugler 1st Vt. Cavalry ; Bugler. 
J. A. Maxham, Bugler. 3d Vt. C. W. Sager, guidon, 11th Vt Heavy 
Arti-lery; Private. H. D. Bliss, Private 21st Mass.; Se gt. E. P. 
Barnes, Private 9th Vt.; Private. A. W. Kezer, 3d Vt.; Private. 
E. J. Knowlton, 4th Vt.; Private. H. O. Leonard. 16th Vr.; Private. 

B. F. Pratt, 16th Vt.; Private S. J. Po^ce, 2d Vt.; Private. Isaac 
Sibley, 1st Vt. Heavy Artillery ; Corp.. E. F. Willard 9th Vt.; Pri- 
vate. J. R. Dunkley, 16th Vt.; Sergt. J. M. Edson, 4th Vt.; Sergt. 

THE NEW HAMPSHIRE MILITARY. 

One hundred years ago the valiant militia from the Granite 
State, under Gen. Stark, won for themselves immortal glory 
and honor at Bennington. Vermont was grateful to this sister 
state for her military assistance and her symyathy in 1777, 



5 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

and to-day she is none the less grateful for the honor done 
her in the presence of the representative militia of that State. 
The Legislature of New Hampshire, at their session of 1877, 
in recognition of the part taken by their militia at Bennington 
on the 16th of August 1777, appopriated the sum of $2,000, in 
addition to the $5,000 for the proposed monument for the 
purpose of securing the attendance of her civic and military 
representatives at the Centennial Anniversary of Vermont's 
Independence, and of the Battle Day. In conformity with 
this action of the Legislature, Governor Prescott issued an 
order to the several military organizations of the State, that 
had offered their services as escort to the executive and legis- 
lative party, for their attendance at Bennington on the days 
designated. The distinguished party of New Hampshire 
visitors consisted of His Excellency B. F. Prescott, Governor 
and Staff; members of Executive Council; the State officers; 
some two hundred members of the Legislature; and the city 
government of Manchester. The military escort consisted of 
the representative companies of the State, which are sketched 
below. 

A special train of twelve cars left Concord on the morning 
of Tuesday, August 14th, at ten o'clock, having on board the 
distinguished party. The train arrived at Bennington about 
midnight. The representatives of the Granite State were met 
at the depot by the National Guard of this State, and escorted 
to the veteran's camp, near the Vermont military. They were 
assigned a prominent position in the procession on "Vermont 
Day" and on the Battle Day were honored with the right of 
the line in the third division, under Gen. Henry as Marshal. 

In reviewing the history of the New Hampshire Military 
who were present on this centennial occasion the "right of 
the line" is given to the celebrated Amoskeag Veterans who 
worthily represent the home of General Stark. 

THE AMOSKEAG VETERANS. 

The corps of Amoskeag Veterans of Manchester N. H., the 
residence of General John Stark, was originally organized in 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 89 

1854, and consisted of the most influential and prominent 
citizens of that city and vicinity. Since its organization it has 1 
furnished from its ranks no less than four Governors of the 
State, eight Judges, two Attorney Generals, six Senators, and 
three Members of Congress, and it has left an abundance of 
material with which to keep these offices supplied for years to 
come. The 22d day of February in each year is celebrated 
by the corps a^ its anniversary day, by a parade, oration and 
other public exercises, dinner and levee. 

In 1855, under command of Col. Chandler E. Potter, they 
made an excursion to the capital of the nation, where they 
were received with high military and civic honors, and were 
made the especial guests of the President of the United 
States. At New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore public 
banquets were given by the citizens in their honor, and they 
were the recipients of the highest demonstrations of respect 
by military organizations and civil authorities. Since that 
time the Veterans have visited Boston, Worcester, Hartford, 
Newburyport, Providence and New York, at which latter 
place they were the guests of the late Col. Fiske, and the 
Ninth New York Regiment. 

They participated in the centennial celebration at Bunker 
Hill and Concord. They were especial escort of Gov. P. C. 
Cheney at Philadelphia, on New Hampshire day at the Cen- 
tennial Exposition, and attended the Bennington celebration 
as the guests of the Centennial Commission. At Bennington 
the Battalion were excellently quartered in the Mansion 
House, Bennington Center, formerly occupied by Mrs. Tih- 
betts, whose guest the President was during his stay in the 
town. The house was admirably fitted up for the Veterans' 
use, by the ladies of the First Baptist Church, and was cov- 
ered with decorations and illuminations provided by the 
Veterans themselves. Capacious cooking and elegant dining 
rooms were constructed in rear of the house. An unceasing 
display of most brilliant fireworks, and the ravishing music 
of the A. V. Regimental Band, carried a nightly enchantment 
into the small hours of the morning, and of the many thou- 






90 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

sands of Bennington's military and civil visitors none reveled 
-in such royal magnificence as did the Amoskeag Veterans. 

Many of the distinguished personages present at this cele- 
bration honored the Veterans with a visit at their princely 
quarters, and to all their hospitalities were freely tendered. 

The following is the roster of the Battalion as officered for 
this occasion. Major A. C. Wallace having been prevented 
from performing his duty as commander, by an unfortunate 
accident which detained him at home, the Battalion was under 
the command of Capt. Darwin H. Simons. 

ROSTER. 

Captain Darwin FT. Simons. $taff— Henry H. Huse, Adjutant ; 
A. G Fairbanks, Quartermaster ; E. F. McQuesten, Surgeon; Henry 
Powers, Chaplain ; Robert Bunton and John Proctor, Color Bearers; 
Band Leader, Dorace D. Gordon, (27 pieces) ; Drum Major, Francis 
H. Pike. 

Company A : — Lieutenant Henry C. Merrill, commanding Com- 
pany; Lieutenants E. C Shirley and J. A. Greenwood. 

Company B : — Lieutenant Ira A. Moore, commanding Company ; 
Lieutenant Wm. H. D. Cochran. 

THE PORTSMOUTH HEAVY ARTILLERY. 

Company K, First Regiment New Hampshire V. M. was 
organized May 17th, 1876, the officers are, D. J. Vaughan, 
Captain; S. B. Cunningham, First Lieutenant; A. P. Preston, 
Second Lieutenant. This fine Artillery Company number 
forty-eight picked men, composed of young men from the 
best families of Portsmouth. They may well pride themselves 
on their proficiency in drill, discipline and soldiery training, 
if their commendable appearance at Bennington is a specimen 
of their regular bearing. This Battery opened the battle day 
anniversary with salvos of artillery, that spoke well for their 
State. Among the veterans of the Company is Captain Vaugh- 
an who served four years in the war, and was wounded 
severely in the face at Antietam. 

THE GOVERNOR CHENEY GUARDS, OF PETERBORO. 

This Company was organized Jan. 20th, 1869, as the 
•"Monadnac Rangers," Company B, First Regiment N H. 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 9I 

V. M. They are composed almost wholly of veterans of the 
late war, the officers having all seen service in the rebellion. 
It is much distinguished for its war record. In June 1876, 
the name was changed to "Gov. Cheney Guards,' in honor of 
Gov. P. C. Cheney, a former citizen of Peteboro. This was 
the largest Company from New Hampshire at Bennington 
and was accompanied by White's Drum Corps of Keene, which 
added much to the fine appearance of the Guards. The 
officers are as follows: Captain J. F. Noone, First Lieuten- 
ant, H. H. Templeton; Second Lieutenant, Martin White; 
First Sergeant, H. H. Needham; Second, Geo. Diamond; 
Third E. A. Walton; Fourth M. E. Osborn, 

THE MANCHESTER WAR VETERANS. 

These gallant veterans of the late war attracted much at- 
tention by their soldierly appearance at Bennington. They 
are officered as follows : Captain, George H. Dodge ; First 
Lieutenant, David A. Paige ; Second Lieutenant, Henry H. 
Everett. These fine looking veterans were accompanied by 
Batchelder & Stokes' celebrated drum corps. Mr. William 
H. Morrill of this Company, one of the old hero's descend- 
ants, brought some capital pictures of General Stark, from 
Tenney's original painting, owned by the Manchester city 
government. On the evening of the battle anniversary the 
veterans marched to the quarters of the Ransom Guard of St. 
Albans with their drum corps, and, after serenading them, 
the commander presented Captain Newton's company with 
fine cabinet pictures of General Stark. 

THE HINSDALE GUARDS. 

The town of Hinsdale has no reason to be ashamed at her 
Guard's appearance, wherever they may be. Their selection 
was an excellent one for the Second Battle of Bennington. 
The officers are : Horace Hosford, Captain ; Laton W. Fol- 
lett, First Lieutenant ; A. H. Latham, Second Lieutenant ; 
J. W. Buckley, C. L. Holton. A. S. Martin, Sergeants ; E. 
C. Robinson, Fred Horton, Fred Chandler, Lewis Russell, 
Corporals. The Company numbered forty-one men at Ben- 



0,2 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

nington. They were organized in April, 1877. having a uni- 
form of dark blue coats, light blue pants, and regulation hats. 
Although a new company, their appearance was very creditable. 

THE STATE CAPITAL GUARDS, OF CONCORD, 

Were organized March 15, 1877, under the direction of Major 
A. W. Smith, Assistant Adjutant and Inspector General. 
Charles A. Bond was elected Captain ; George M. Felt, First 
Lieutenant ; M. A. Buck, Second Lieutenant. About the 
middle of June, Captain Bond resigned, and Lieutenant Felt 
was promoted to Captain; M. A. Buck, First Lieutenant; 
and Fred A. Price, Second Lieutenant. They have the ma- 
terial for a No. I Company, and as twenty of their number 
are old veterans, the Capital will suffer no discredit through 
their appearance. At Bennington they certainly made a cap- 
ital showing of military science. 

Of the Strafford Guards of Dover, New Hampshire, the 
writer is unable to give their history as he has not received 
any communication from them. Captain J. S. Abbott was in 
command at the "Second Battle of Bennington;" but whether 
Dover has seen the Guards since that great day, deponent 
saith not. The Manchester and Fisherville Bands accom- 
panied the military and added much to the eclat of the occa- 
sion by their fine selections. 

The New Hampshire visitors left for home at nine o'clock 
Friday morning. They made as favorable an impression by 
their fine soldierly appearance and discipline at the Second 
Battle of Bennington, as did the Stark Militia of a hundred 
years ago by the valor and bravery on the same fields. 

Connecticut's veteran phalanx. 

The State of Connecticut did not furnish directly any militia 
for the Bennington Battle of 1777, but, as General Hawley 
claims that about all of the famous military heroes and prin- 
cipal civil dignitaries originally came to Vermont from that 
State, the writer, without disputing him, recognizes the very 
fitting and appropriate selection made for her representation 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT'S CENTENNIAL. 93 

at Bennington, in 1877, both in the gallant and eloquent 
General, as well as in that famous military organization, the 
Putnam Phalanx. The General's wit, with his ''claims" for 
Connecticut, enlivened the proceedings at the pavilion on 
* 'Vermont Day." As he was a guest of the Phalanx during 
their stay, it was surmised that he might enforce his State's 
right to Vermont by force of arms. Certainly the occasion 
was honored by the presence of both the General and the 
military from the Capital of Connecticut. The names of 
Putnam, of Stark and of Warner are equally memorable for 
patriotism and heroic deeds. 

The Putnam Phalanx are an organization made up of sub- 
stantial citizens, whose ages range from early prime to "three 
score and ten," whose patriotism inspires them to adopt as 
their watchword, and engrave it upon their banners of him 
who "dared to lead where any dared to follow." They 
are a company of gentlemen whose intelligence and dignity 
with their picturesque continental uniform, fittingly represent 
the enterprising and beautiful City of Hartford. The officers 
are as follows: 

Major, F. M. Brown ; Adjutant, Geo. S. Burnham ; Quartermaster, 
Alvin Squires ; Commissary, H. W. Simpson ; Judge Advocate, Geo. 
H . Wood ; Chaplain, A. Howard ; surgeon, P. D. Peltier ; Paymas- 
ter, O. H. Blanchard ; Engineer, J. S. Biggs ; Assistant Surgeon, 
Grosvenor Swan; Assistant Engineer, Dudley Fox; Secretary, H. 
T. Stedman; Color Bearers, Tneodore Colston, S. W. Lincoln. 
Company Officers— 1 aptain, J. S. Hussey; 1st Lieutenant, Joseph 
Warner; 2d Lieutenant, J. G. Cornwall ; Ensign, B. G. Baldwin, 

Their history dates from August 8th, 1858, the object of 
the organization being to take "part in the reception of Col. 
Thomas H. Seymour," who had done great honor to his coun- 
try as minister to the Russian court, and was highly esteemed 
and beloved by his fellow-citizens ; also to promote greater 
"harmony in our social relations," and to perpetuate the 
memory of the heroes of the revolution and the "times that 
tried men's souls." It is called a Battalion, having two com- 
panies, with a Major as commandant, he having a staff of some 
fourteen persons, and a drum and fife band. The dress is 



94 THE SECOND BATTLE OF BENNINGTON: 

fashioned after Washington's in the Patent Office. It3 earliest 
membership composed many of the most distinguished and 
prominent citizens of that city and state, and at the reception 
of Colonel Seymour, on his return home from Russia, August 
30, 1859, numbered "in full uniform 148 men, rank and flle, ,r 
on parade. Originally it was simply a volunteer association 
for the purposes named, but at the last session of the State 
Legislature it obtained a charter, and is now organized with 
the ordinary powers and responsibilities pertaining to chartered 
companies, and hopes to preserve to much extent the general 
bearing and respect hitherto enjoyed as a commemorative 
body of gentlemen. 

At the Bennington celebration the Phalanx had the right of 
the second division on the first day, and the right of the first 
division the second day, and also escorted the President to the 
train, furnishing a platoon who acted as " rear guard" on the 
occasion. 

THE BOSTON CADET CORPS. 

The Boston Cadet Corps was originally organized in 1741, 
as a body guard to the Governor of the Province of Massa- 
chusetts Bay. In 1774, under Colonel John Hancock, they 
performed escort duty for Governor Thomas Gage. In 1776, 
the members united in an organization known as the Indepen- 
dent Company. In 1786, the title of Cadets was added. 
From that time up to 1861 their record as the Governor's 
Body Guard is an honorable one. During the Rebellion over 
140 members received commissions and served in different 
capacities, from the rank of Lieutenant to that of Major 
General. The 45th Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers 
was officered almost wholly from their ranks. The Corps 
numbers 180 men, their term of enlistment being three years. 
Their uniform of white coat and gold trimmings, light blue 
pants, with black dress caps having white plumes, is a very 
handsome one. Their splendid marching in the procession, 
with their fine dress parade at the centennial grounds after 
the banquet, drew forth flattering encomiums from the assem- 



A HISTORY OF VERMONT S CENTENNIAL. 95 

bled thousands. The proficiency of their drilling was excel- 
lent. In the evening a detachment of the Cadets visited the 
Ransom Guard, and made a pleasant social call on the Com- 
pany. They have the reputation of being the crack military 
organization of the old Bay State, and well sustained that 
position while at Bennington. Their officers are as follows: 

Thomas F. Edmauds, Lieutenant Cornel; Charles P. Horton, 
Major; w. L. Richardson, Su geon — rank, Major; Charles E. 
Ste ens, Mustering Officer -rank. Captain; Francis H. Appleton, 
Adjutant— rank, First Lieutenant; Charles c. v-elcher, Quarter- 
master-rank, First Lieuteu ant. Non-Commissioued Staff: Ser- 
geant Major, Charles T. Lovering ; Quartermaster Serjeant, 
Thomas P. Beal; Host if al Keward, Charles M. Green; Drum 
Major, (j and Master,) John C. Mullaly. 

THE TIBBITS VETERAN CORPS. 

On the 1 8th of March, 1876, Colonel Joseph Egolf, com- 
mander of Post Willard G. A. R. of Troy, N. Y., with some 
eighty-one veterans of the Post, organized themselves into a 
military company. The name of " Tibbits Veteran Corps" 
was selected in honor of that gallant soldier and respected 
citizen, Major General William B. Tibbits. On Decoration 
day of 1876, the Corps was mustered into the State's service 
as the Fourth Separate Company N. Y. S. N. G. General 
Tibbits, on this occasion, presented the Veterans with an ele- 
gant stand of State and National colors. The Corps was 
present at the 99th anniversary celebration of Bennington's 
battle. The Veterans made an excursion to the Centennial 
at Philadelphia, on August 27th, and were received by Post 
No. 2 of the Quaker City. On August 30th, they gave an 
exhibition drill at the centennial grounds, which was pro- 
nounced by the press of Philadelphia to be the finest military 
display made there during the Centennial. On the Centennial 
of Bennington Battle, the Corps visited Bennington as guests 
of the Park Guard. In the procession and elsewhere they 
acquitted themselves nobly, and reflected great honor on the 
Empire State. The Corps at present numbers ninety men, all 
gallant veterans, true gentlemen, and respected citizens. 



IN CONCLUSION. 



The Vermont Centennial was deserving of the National re- 
cognition it received ; and it will rank with any previous anni- 
versary — excepting, of course, the Philadelphia Centennial — 
not only in the importance of the events commemorated ; of 
the Declaration and the Constitution, which were baptised and 
christened in the name of "Freedom and Unity" by the blood 
of her noble sons, shed at Bennington, in defence of these 
priceless State papers. But also in the success that attended 
the celebration ; in the beauty and taste of the decorations, in 
the high order of the literary exercises, in the fine military dis- 
play, in the number of distinguished persons present, and in 
the hundred thousand people that thronged the streets ; to- 
gether with the honored presence of President Hayes and four 
members of his Cabinet, of the Executive and Legislative 
bodies, accompanied by representative military companies from 
the states that made victory possible here, one hundred years 
ago. To the Battle Monument Association ; and to the 
worthy President and members of the Centennial Commis- 
sion for their earnest efforts and indefatigable labors in per- 
fecting and carrying out the arrangements that made the 
celebration the success that it was ; and to the people of Ben- 
nington that contributed of their means and time to entertain 
the multitude, and to decorate and make beautiful their homes, 
are the thanks of one hundred thousand people due for these 
days of rare enjoyment, and of memorable exercises. 







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